Writing and Revising Poetry

Writing and Revising Poetry

'Use no superfluous word, no adjective, which does not reveal something. Don't use such an expression as 'dim land of peace.' It dulls the image. It mixes an abstraction with the concrete. It comes from the writer's not realising that the natural object is always the adequate symbol. Go in fear of abstractions.' - Ezra Pound

When writing a poem, every word, punctuation, line break, space, matters; therefore, it is important to be intentional and precise about each aspect of your poem. Here are some guidelines for writing poetry:

• Have a focus, an idea, feeling, opinion, or theme, to explore
• Choose a point of view:
• Who is the narrator? Your self, a fictional character, an idea?
• Is the poem written in 1st person? “I”
• 2nd person? “you”
• 3rd person? general, omniscient narrator
• Start strong - have an engaging hook
• Choose precise, relevant, meaningful details and words
• Structure and organization - organize the poem intentionally; make sure it flows:
• Is the poem written in stanzas? Are you following a particular pattern?
• Is the poem free verse, written with no set structure?
• Are you following a specific form such as a 2-voice poem, haiku, sonnet, etc.?
• Have intentional line breaks:
• based on syllables or number of words
• to follow a particular rhyme pattern
• long lines to speed up the poem, sound conversational
• short lines to slow down the pacing of the poem
• single words for emphasis
• Have a surprising, thought-provoking ending

When revising:

• Ask yourself, “Have I fully explored my focus? Do I have enough layers of meaning? Does my poem feel finished?”   
• Read and reread, read your poem aloud, share with someone and get feedback, and work diligently and passionately to explore and illuminate the hidden beauties and complexities that arise as you write.