Poetry is the one form its writers don't write for the money; but for the love of the form and to be recognised, and read. Poetry markets in past years have dwindled as publishers make more losses than gains. So what goes into a poem, behind the words?
Stressed and unstressed syllables. Anyone who has studied English would have come across this. But what does it mean? In simple terms, it is the strength or the weakness of the sound of a syllable. This way is the English way for writing poetry. There is; however, another way.
The French Poets use syllable counting. Such as a four line stanza may have a syllable structure as such: 4 - 3 - 4 - 3. Combining both methods often makes for a strong rhythmn.
Symbolism. In essence this is saying something but meaning something else. To say, "A white swan on a turbulent sea," could mean somone's majesty, beauty, innocence, etc being spoilt by inner or outer conflicts.
Imagery. The most common are by using comparisons, known as Similie and Metaphor. Similie = Like, as Metaphor = is. Egs: She was like the wind; She is the wind. This is important when you are trying to say a lot in fewer words.
Stressed and unstressed syllables in a collection is known as a foot. Iambic Pentameter is usually 10 syllables, over 5 feet. This means one stressed then one stressed syllable per foot. Also, this is common when including a Rhyming Couplet. These help create a rhythmn pattern over the poem; but poems do not have to include this or anyhting else - unless necessary.
If you are stuck for ideas on what to write next, maybe these suggestions may help you. Write each stanza as a different observations of your topic; don't include stanzas (difference between strophic and stichic poetry); make it lyrical perhaps; maybe try to play on words; write a poem where nothing makes sense (is a form actually used!); build a picture in words.
Poetry has many layers, facets and roads to venture down; but whatever the Poet chooses these rules are a must: have fun, enjoy and be creative.
What goes into a poem to create meaning? Here, published Writer and Poet, Christopher Elliott, attempts to lay down some foundations
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