How To Write Poetry

Poetry is a form of creative writing that provides limitless options for the poet. A poem can be structured or unstructured. Either way, there are certain things you can do to craft a great poem.

Tips For Writing Better Poetry

Tynea Lewis By more by Tynea Lewis

Poetry is a unique genre of writing. While there are many forms of poetry that have certain specifications, poetry as a whole is a genre that allows a lot of author creativity. It doesn't have to be a daunting task. It can be a lot of fun if you embrace it.

  • Write what's on your heart. Be completely honest, and don't hold back. Poetry can be a way to release your emotions and work through the issues of life.

    More on Using Emotion In Poetry

  • Don't force rhyming. Not all poems rhyme, and that's okay. It's better not to rhyme than to have the rhymes be forced or clichéd.
  • Make sure the poem flows. How does it sound when read aloud? Are you tripping over words? If so, see what you can reword or eliminate.
  • If you're having trouble forming your poem, put each line you want to include on an index card. You'll then be able to move them around to see how various placements work.
  • Write using various forms. It's okay to experiment and have a terrible poem. Experimenting might give you a fresh look into the world of poetry. You also might find something you really enjoy.

    More on Basic Poetry Forms

  • Use imagery. The use of vivid and descriptive language gives your reader a great picture. Use specific words, similes, metaphors, and personification to convey your ideas.
  • Don't forget your senses. Think about how your topic can be described using taste, touch, sight, sound, and smell.

    More on Using 5 Sense in Poetry

  • Keep a notebook nearby to jot down ideas as they come to you. You can always go back and elaborate on them. Paging through a notebook of your thoughts is a great way to spark creativity.
  • Have fun!

What poetry writing techniques have worked for you? Share them below.

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ABOUT THE POET:

Tynea Lewis is an editor for Family Friend Poems and helped to develop the National Poetry Month Resources for Family Friend Poems. She started her career as an elementary teacher and has had a passion for writing since she was in 1st grade.

For over a decade, she was the...

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  • Earl Pomeroy by Earl Pomeroy
  • 2 years ago

I have enjoyed writing sestina form poems. The six chosen words provide a starting place for thinking. They seed the creative process. Working them through the seven stanza structure can lead to unexpected places.

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