A couple of weeks ago a young man asked me for advice on writing a poem. He was celebrating a milestone and wanted to offer something to his sweetheart. I was flattered that he asked. I offered simple advice (which then helped me to see more of the complex in my writing). And off he went, writing. Creating. Crafting.
- Stay Simple
It doesnt’ have to be long or complicated. Well, this is so often my preference in my poems. I love reading others that claim their simple.
qw - Come From Your Heart
Be honest in what you say and declare. It might not even make sense to others (hmmm…, be willing to be misunderstood…). But make sure you are as honest with yourself, in that moment as you can be. Heart is recognizable beyond words.
as - Experiment With Structure
I love this experiment,
playing with how poetry looks on the page.
Sentences each
with only
two words.
Or call-back repeat lines that bookend a poem.
I love this experiment.
as - Enjoy What You Write
Less fret. More celebration. Let it be what it is in the moment. I’ve written of William Stafford previously, and the story of him writing a poem every day for thirty years. When asked, what do you do if you write a crappy poem, he replied, “I lower my standards.” Yes, celebrate the words coming through you. They might change and grow over seasons.
So, I’m glad this young man asked me. I think my words helped foster a bit of courage in him. And, it helped me to make visible some things I rely on.
Poetry moves my heart.
I love to see when such offerings move others.
I love to feel invitation on a page
abe— to the things inner and the things outer.
Poetry moves my heart.
