* The Renaissance: Shakespeare lived during the English Renaissance, a time of great intellectual and artistic flourishing. The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in classical literature, philosophy, and art, including poetry. This environment would have naturally exposed Shakespeare to the works of great poets like Homer, Virgil, and Ovid.
* The theater: Shakespeare's primary career was as a playwright and actor. At the time, plays were often written in verse, and Shakespeare would have been immersed in the world of poetry through his theatrical work.
* His education: While we don't know the specifics of Shakespeare's education, it's likely he had some formal schooling. Education in the Elizabethan era included the study of classical literature, including poetry, and this could have sparked his interest.
* The cultural context: England during the Elizabethan era was a society that valued poetry highly. It was used for expressing emotions, telling stories, and celebrating important events. This cultural emphasis on poetry would have naturally influenced Shakespeare.
It's also important to remember that Shakespeare's interest in poetry wasn't just a passive thing. He was a gifted writer with a natural talent for language and rhythm. It's highly likely that his talent and his exposure to poetry combined to fuel his passion and ultimately led him to become one of the greatest poets in history.