This paper examines the how and why of using poetry in EFL classes as a language teaching device. First it identifies those features of poetry which provide educational and linguistic opportunities for teachers and learners. It then explains the difficulties that teachers and learners may encounter in using poetry in their classes. The author argues that if poetry is to be used as a source of instruction and enjoyment in classes, it must be carefully selected and presented in a way that promotes an authentic interaction between the reader and the poem. And lastly, by providing some sample pieces of poetry, the author tries to introduce a model for the beneficial incorporation of poetry in EFL classes.