Poems are the end result of the literary process of writing poetry. The word poetry is also used as the collective noun for a collection of poems, and may have a singular or plural verb agreement.
I have reached the conclusion that however long or short a poem is these three main elements need to be present in order to woe the reader:
· An opening statement that engages the interest of the reader;
· Developing the plot: this might employ poetic devices such as a pivotal phrase to steer the readers’ attention in the direction you wish it to go; and
· The conclusion, that is, the reason why the poem was penned.
Poetry has a language of its own and elements only to be found in poetry. Poetry (especially the shorter poetic forms) teaches one to be more succinct in the expression of thought and argument, but it should always be clear and unambiguous.
Poets are the cats of the literary world; staring fixedly into corners, seeing things mere mortals doesn’t comprehend. Each poem should tantalise the senses and provoke thought and, therefore, the participation of the reader when he mulls over the contents of the poem. Getting feedback from your readers is valuable in helping you to hone your skills. We don’t always remember the exact words of a poem, but we do remember the impression it had made on us; the feelings it had evoked.
Dream big—edit hard. It might take a while for a poet to find his own distinctive voice: his unmistakable turn of phrase or the topics that he is passionate about. Poetry is an expression of your emotions and thoughts—your poetic voice is as indelible as a fingerprint. By employing the various poetic devices at your disposal, you will soon find your own rhythm. My simple philosophy regarding poetry is:
· Do not leave your readers in any doubt as to what thought or message you wish to convey—a subscript should be superfluous;
· Leave your readers with a sense that they can identify with the poem;
· And lastly, do not be didactic—leave them in a pensive mood.
It does not have to be a lengthy, stylised composition to woe the reader. Sometimes, simplicity is more effective. For example, a single line of verse:
Dust motes dance like ill-conceived clichés in the late afternoon sunbeam falling onto the written page.
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Copyright © by Suzette Richards 2021
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