How To Write A Meaningful Poem? Advice From A Published Poet
Every poet has a different process when it comes to writing a poem. But through my time participating in creative writing courses and programs throughout the world, I’ve come to realize my process might be more on the nontraditional side. I have narrowed it down below to the tips that will universally benefit everyone.
Find Time Alone
It is important in poetry to be your most vulnerable self. Even though we are not forced to share our work in most writing groups. I think most people find it hard getting in touch with their true feeling while others are in the room
Writing exercises and group work can be beneficial to bounce ideas off of. Personally, I have found it holds me back from getting my most vulnerable truths out there. Instead, I only truly write when I am alone.
Don’t Force it
The truth about creating anything is sometimes it flow out and sometimes it doesn’t. This does not represent any lack in your writing abilities, creativity, or commitment.
I don’t ever really plan to write. I just wait until I get this heaviness in my chest. It normally means I have a feeling I need to express and release. I can talk about my feelings all I want with people and in therapy but it never gives me the same sense of peace as when I craft it into a poem. You may not experience this same sensation but the more you get in tune with your emotions, the more you’ll know when is the right time for you to create.
I never force my writing. Once I start getting stumped and coming up with a blah stanza or two I know it’s time to throw in the towel. This method helps prevent writers block because a part of me consistently writing every day but there is never too much pressure to produce because I know if I don’t feel like writing for a week when I finally do I’ll probably write 5 poems in 20 minutes.
Write Your Poem From a Place of Honesty
I am not one for drastic editing. Editing is valuable but I try to chose the right words and structure from the beginning so there is rarely huge changes to any of my pieces. I know many people suggest first getting down the bare bones of the idea but I personally find it easier to follow the experience of the words and let that guide the work.
This begs the questions how do I know the outline of a piece before I write it.
The simple answer is I mostly don’t. Some time there is analogy that comes to mind or repeating phrase or a character to portray. Mostly, I just hear the first sentence and go from there. I am highly influenced by music. So while I have never enjoyed rhyme schemes, I think they’re should be a rhythm and flow through out each piece.
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Blog by Nicole Asherah. Nicole Asherah is an artist who tries to connect people to intimate moments, feelings, and relationships experienced throughout life through her poetry, paintings, and photography.
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