Learn to Write Poetry

September 1st, 2009 by Carrie Spry, under Copy and Writing. No Comments

The ‘free verse’ style of poetry is the most popular among current writers. Walt Whitman is credited with originating the form in the late 19th century. Poetry was restricted to certain forms and rhyming schemes before that time.

Formal poetry generally follows a set pattern, in rhyme and meter. We commonly place a letter at the end of the last word in each line. Analyzing these patterns is called scansion.

If the first two lines rhyme with each other, we would place an A at the end of each line. If the third and fourth line rhyme with each other but not the first two, we would place a B at the end of each. The pattern would be AABB. If the fifth line rhymes with either, we would place an A, or B appropriately. If it does not rhyme, a C would be used.

Next, we are concerned with meter. Each line contains a set number of beats, usually two or three syllables. The most common beat is ‘Iambic pentameter’. The individual beats consist of a short and a strong pulse. This beat is present in words such as ‘arrest, domain, forsooth’. The accent is on the second syllable.

OK, enough rules and on to the fun stuff. What do you start with when you tell stories or write letters? Do you begin with something you overheard? Witnessed? Read About? Start with what you are comfortable with, that’s the best way to start.

What kind of poem are you going to write? Would you like to do a character study or a story? The best thing to do is go through some examples. This will give you some ideas. Don’t worry if you get a “writer’s block.” The best way to get past it is to take a break and come back the next day. Keep a pen and paper with you, something may come to you if your out.

Good poems take weeks and sometimes months to come up with. Don’t rush it. If your stuck, take a break for a few days and come back. Don’t re-read the entire draft, simply begin with the last line in your poem. You can surprise yourself.