Poetry+Basics

Getting Started

Poets.org (A look into the different schools and movements of poetry from Shakespeare and earlier to the modern style)

Poets.org (How to read a poem)

Poets.org (If you're interested in publishing poems or poetry contests)

Why Poetry?

Poetry is free and expressive! It doesn't all have to rhyme or have a particular line length or rhythm (unless prescribed by the form), nor does it have to be about nature or love. Poetry is for everyone: for any ideas, backgrounds, feelings, or memories. Writing poetry should be a release - to let your thoughts and emotions flow. Granted, your first conception of a poem will probably not be the best. Like any writing, you will need to revise and edit until you sculpt something beautiful that you are proud to show off. Poetry is not just for old dead guys like Shakespeare. This genre of writing is still very popular, mostly because it is accessible to everyone.

Listen to the following interviews from NPR's "Tell Me More" Program, and you'll see how powerful poetry still is, and where it has evolved. Trinidad Poet Flexes the Power of Poetry, What Makes a Tweet a Poem?

Listen in particular to Mr. Bonair-Agard's process of writing - how long it takes him to write a draft, what he does during his revision process, how //many// drafts he writes...and this is //per poem.// You hear some of his poems in the interview, and they are not particularly long. Just because the poem is short does not mean that it needs less revision than a five page essay. Also listen to //why// he writes poetry; it is very inspirational.