A few things to keep in mind while sitting down to write a poem:
- Don't tell the readers what they already know about life.
- Don't assume you're the only one in the world who suffers.
- Some of the greatest poems in the language are sonnets and poems not many lines longer than that, so don't overwrite.
- The use of images, similes and metaphors make poems concise. Close your eyes, and let your imagination tell you what to do.
- Say the words you are writing aloud and let your ear decide what word comes next.
- What you are writing down is a draft that will need additional tinkering, perhaps many months, and even years of tinkering.
- Remember, a poem is a time machine you are constructing, a vehicle that will allow someone to travel in their own mind, so don't be surprised if it takes a while to get all its engine parts properly working.
4 voices:
Thanks, Rethabile. This is great advice.
Khotso, ntate. I liked the simplicity and straightforwardness in it.
Chant the above like a mantra. Wonderful simplicity.
I must be honest, I find the idea of tinkering at a poem for years daunting. Perhaps, this is something one accepts with experience and wisdom. I mean I know it can be done, even should be done, it's just the idea of it wants to make me run screaming into the middle of the highway to play tag with Putco buses.
wants to make me ... makes me want to ... *grin*
Post a Comment