How to Write Poetry
The most popular style of our time is the ‘free verse’ style. This form originated in the late 19th century, with Walt Whitman being credited for it. Before this form was introduced, poetry was restricted to certain form.
Patterns are common to formal poetry. Scansion is the analyzing of rhyme and meter. A letter is commonly places at the end of each line beginning with the first letter of the alphabet A for the first rhyme, and B for the second, etc.
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.
Enough of the rules already, let’s get to the fun stuff. When you tell stories or write letters what do you start with? Something you overheard, witnessed, or read about? The best way to start a poem is to begin with what you’re most comfortable with.
What type of poem did you have in mind? A Story? A comment? Or could it be a character study? Go through some examples to help get you started off on the right foot. It is common to get what is called “writer’s block”. If this happens, take a break, or come back to it the next day. If your out and something comes to you, jot it down.
It may take many weeks or months to get your poem finished. If your having trouble, take a break. When you come back, carry on from the last line in your poem. You will be delighted at what comes out.
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