In this exercise, we will explore the elements contained in the craft of a poem. While
much poetry is inspired, inspiration does not equate excellence. It's only the beginning.
That spark combined with craft lead to truly great poetry, greatness implying that a poem
will withstand the
test of time.
When I asked you to read and then listen to poems, I was trying to push you towards not
only understanding the meaning of the poem, but also towards hearing the rhythms and sound
of the poem, as poets use a range of tools to craft a poem.
Please jot a short note on the D board about these two groups of words:
|
Group II |
| blue, shoe, chinook, moose | sigh, hive, light, dine |
Say the words out loud. Repeat them. What feelings do they evoke?
Another part of craft is form. This tool is used to contain and constrain a poem, shaping
the way it is read. A poem that strictly adheres to traditional form will often contain
intense emotion. One that is loose and seemingly haphazard allows for a broader range of
emotion.
Take your two groups of words and write two short poems using each group.
 | One group of words should be in a standard form; |
| the other in a "free" form. |
This is just an exercise, so don't worry about writing the greatest poems in the world. Once you have composed your "poems," post them to the HW Board, so that we can enjoy them.