Write Poems

If you'd like to write your own poems, but you are not sure how, here are some tips on how to get started:

First, think about what you want to achieve with your poem.
Perhaps you want to write a poem to express your love for your boyfriend or girlfriend; perhaps you want to write a funny poem for your friend's birthday; or maybe you just want to put down your emotions on paper.
So, think about what you want to write about, then go ahead ...
Perhaps the easiest is to begin by writing humorous short poems.

Keep a journal about your observations and ideas - use it for inspiration.

Write down your thoughts as they come to you. Don't edit as you write, or do edit as you write - you choose which. However, do try both methods at least a few times to see what works best for you.

Choose the right words.
If a novel is "words in the best order," then a poem is "the best words in the best order." So keep working at your poem until you have built a strong structure of words. Use only those words that are necessary, those that enhance the meaning of the poem. Choose your words carefully.

Save your most powerful message or insight for the end of your poem. The last line is to a poem what a punch line is to a joke--something that evokes an emotional response. Give the reader something to think about ...

Edit your poem.
When the basic poem is written, set it aside for awhile and then read the poem out loud to yourself. Go through it and balance the choice of words with the rhythm.
Get as much feedback as you can before beginning any editing.

Don't give up. You'll probably find that your poems become better and easier to write as you write more of them.