When did Countee Cullen start writing poems?

While there's no exact date on when Countee Cullen started writing poems, it's generally accepted that he began writing poetry in his youth.

Here's what we know:

* Early Exposure: Cullen was exposed to poetry from a young age, particularly through his mother who was a schoolteacher. He also attended a high school with a strong emphasis on literature.

* First Publication: His first poem, "The Shroud of Color," was published in the New York Age in 1916, when he was 17 years old.

* Continued Writing: He continued writing throughout his life, publishing several collections of poetry and earning recognition for his talent.

Therefore, it's safe to say that Countee Cullen started writing poems sometime before 1916, and his early exposure to poetry likely fostered his passion and talent.