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Poetry By The Numbers
Here’s a numbered approach to
writing good poetry. You may want to rearrange the numbers to suit your
own methodology. However, they are a good starting place for beginning
poets. It’s sort of a “Where to Start” guide.
- Pray for inspiration and expect
it to overtake you. It doesn’t just flood you after praying. It is
rather a flow that usually sneaks up on you when you least expect
it.
- Keep a pen handy to jot down
phrases as the day passes. Don’t try to complete it the same time
you get the phrase or topic.
- Start a folder of phrases that
have been given to you by God.
- When you sit down to write, don’t
second-guess yourself. Write it out in full and review it later.
This will allow you to flow. Don’t worry about rhyme or meter now.
- Leave it sit for a while and go
back to it later with the intent to edit as you feel is right.
- Now look for rhyme and meter as
well as form. And complete your second edit.
- Do not go over 36 lines in
length. The shorter the better.
- Look for a central theme and
shape the poem around that one thought.
- Do not ramble on or deviate
from your theme.
- Put it down again for a few
days and look at it afresh.
- Read it out loud and feel its
impact. Ask yourself, “What is wrong with it?” Be honest! Is it
saying anything? Does it flow? Is there a message that speaks to the
heart of the reader?
- Look at it from all angles to
be sure it is your best and that God’s inspiration is clearly
communicated.
- Share it with others and watch
their expressions, looking for a reaction.
- Rate it as Excellent, Good,
Fair, Needs work, etc. Judge your own work.
- Put it under copyright
protection.
I am sure you can add a few more
numbers to me list. It is a good guide for beginners and those who need
refreshing in their gifting.
Until Next Time
Rev John Marinelli
johnmarinelli@embarqmail.com |
