Romance is something we all long for. Even the most cynical amongst us must surely secretly yearn for someone special to spend time with, and cuddle up with on those cold lonely winter evenings. And what better way to woo a loved one than with poetry?

Whether it comes as part of a collection of romantic gifts, or even if it's used on its own, poetry can be an effective way to make someone special go weak at the knees. Indeed, poetry has a rich and profound history that is believed to actually predate literacy. It is thought that the earliest examples of poetry were orally recited and were often used as a way of remembering things of historical significance. After all, if you can't write things down, how else are you going to keep a note of things for future generations to remember?

Poetry, as we know it today, can be written in a number of different forms. And while many will be familiar with sonnets, haiku and odes, there is so much more to this beautiful artistic form; the broad spectrum of poetic forms also includes jintishi, sestina and villanelle. Poetry can also fall into a number of different genres, such as narrative, epic and satirical. However, the well-known poem that starts with "roses are red, violets are blue", is so famous it must surely fall into a category all on its own?

Potentially adorning countless numbers of romantic gifts, not to mention Valentine's Day cards, this poem traditionally ends with the lines: "Sugar is sweet; and so are you". But, rather than simply relying upon this timeless poem to let someone know how you feel, what if you could go further and actually name a rose after someone special? So, if this is something you've always wanted to do, why not opt for the Name a Rose Gift Box?

Arguably one of the most quixotic of all romantic gifts, the Name a Rose Gift Box is one of the best ways to show that special person just how special you think they are. Presented in a stylish silver gift box, the Name a Rose gift includes everything you and that special person needs, including a special pack of seeds and a personalised A5 certificate. The set also includes a handy set of instructions, so hopefully it won't just be love that starts to blossom.

Fans of romantic gifts might also like to consider either the personalised rose petal print or card. Personalised with any name of your choice, this beautiful picture is sure to make any heart melt, particularly when presented as either an A4 or A3-sized print.

However, if poetry is more your thing - but you wish to avoid the more obvious ways to express your deepest emotions - why not opt for the classic Japanese haiku. Poetic romantic gifts using this form are usually written in three lines when English is used; however, traditional Japanese haiku were originally written using one vertical line. Interestingly, even today haiku should ideally contain one word that accurately reflects the season in which the poem has been written.

This poetic form can be used for topics that make explicit references to love or romance; but even if they don't, they can still make beautiful and romantic gifts. Indeed, some of the most beautiful haiku are about death and the most mundane aspects of life. An individual traditionally wrote Japanese haiku on death when they knew the moment of their passing was drawing close; other styles, including Chinese and waka were also used.

Whatever form of poem you eventually plumb for, as long as you make sure it comes from the heart, you cannot help but impress the object of your affections. And if you are the cynical one who doesn't believe in romance, then perhaps you'll be swayed by such romantic gifts - especially if they're named after you.