Poetry began as one of the earliest forms of human literature, thousands of years before any proper doctrine of communication was set up. In fact, the power of poetry is credited by historians to be instrumental in consolidating ancient empires dating back to Babylon and Mesopotamia.
In more recent history, social media writers warped the concepts of poetry to create something much more easily transmittable and digestible, climbing up to the bestseller ranks on Amazon during the process.
Between Mesopotamia and #Instapoetry, the tectonic plates of literature and human cognition have shifted; and yet, the power of poetry is undeniable.
Power of Poetry Decoded for Beginner Poets in 2023
Built a knife of words –
Carved past, present, and future;
They still chose murder.
What you choose to do with the power of poetry is a choice only for you to make, but be aware of the consequences while you do.
Ah, poetryâthe elixir of emotions! In a world filled with noise and distractions, poetry has this magical ability to captivate our hearts and transport us to a universe where emotions reign supreme. With its rhythmic cadence and evocative language, poetry can transport us to realms of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. It’s like a rollercoaster ride for the heart, taking us on thrilling emotional journeys.
Poetry, although mere words on pages, have contributed significantly to freedom movements and the world order we seem to enjoy today. Be it the American Revolution, the Civil War, or the Indian fight for independence. In fact, the introduction to poetry for many of us is through such powerful works.
Throughout history, women have used poetry as a powerful tool to express their strength, resilience, and sassiness. From Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise” to Emily Dickinson’s “I’m Nobody! Who are you?”, strong women poets have paved the way for empowerment and inspired generations.
Even beyond guns and roses and empowering strong woman poems, poetry has the power to transform human souls. That, in my grand opinion, is the true purpose of poetry. So, whether you are a novice poet or just curious about the enchanting world of verses, this step-by-step guide will empower you to unlock the power of poetry.
Step 1: Embracing Vulnerability through Poetry
This step is all about diving into the depths of your emotions and embracing the power of vulnerability in your introduction to poetry journey. Start by setting aside dedicated time for self-reflection. Grab a journal or find a quiet corner where you can let your thoughts flow freely. Explore your personal experiences, joys, fears, and struggles. Allow yourself to be open and honest with your emotions.
Write without judgment or restraint, letting your pen dance across the page. By embracing vulnerability, you’ll discover a wellspring of inspiration and authenticity that will unleash the raw emotional power of poetry.
I dwell in Possibilityâ
A fairer House than Proseâ
More numerous of Windowsâ
Superiorâ for Doorsâ
-from I Dwell in Possibilty (1862) by Emily Dickinson. She is regarded as one of the earliest feminists and her works reflect many empowering strong woman poems.
This, however, might not be as easy as plucking an apple from your neighborâs orchard. You have to dig the ground, plant the seed, water it every day, and give it time to grow into a tree.
On days, it might not feel worth it. Or too stressful to continue. Or too overpowering even. It is important, in those moments, to remember that being vulnerable is a choice and by making this choice, you have already braved your greatest fears.
Step 2: Unleashing Creativity and Finding Your Voice
Unleash the wild, untamed poet, or shall I say: artist, within you! Take a playful approach to writing by engaging in creative exercises and prompts. Experiment with different poetic forms, styles, and perspectives.
Step outside your comfort zone and explore unconventional metaphors, surprising word choices, and vivid imagery. Embrace the unexpected, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. It’s through this exploration that you’ll discover your unique poetic voiceâa voice that resonates with authenticity and captivates your readers.
Something I have talked about in much detail in my previous poetry basics article is the power of reading. With so much works available for free reading on the internet, your introduction to poetry journey will only be spoilt with choices. But the purpose of reading is not to curb your creativity or individuality but to build a sturdy canvas for you to paint the story you want to tell. Follow the poetry basics but donât get bound by them.
Step 3: Craftsmanship and Refinement
Now that you’ve unleashed your poetic creativity, it’s time to refine your work and elevate it to new heights. Treat each poem as a sculpture waiting to be chiseled into perfection. Read your poems aloud to identify any clunky phrases or awkward rhythms. Trim away unnecessary words to create concise and impactful lines. Pay attention to the sensory details and imagery, making them more vivid and evocative.
Experiment with different line breaks and stanza structures to enhance the flow and pacing of your poems. Embrace the role of an editor, revising and polishing until your poem shines with brilliance. Remember, craftsmanship takes time and dedication, but the end result will be a poem that leaves a lasting impact on your readers.
Step 4: Sharing and Connecting with Others
Poetry is meant to be shared, like a delicious slice of cake that’s too good to keep to yourself. It’s time to step out of your poetic cocoon and share your work with the world. In the modern world, thereâs a plethora of ways to connect with fellow poets, whether it’s through local writing groups, online communities, or open mic nights.
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Sharing your poems allows you to receive feedback, gain new perspectives, and foster a sense of belonging in the vibrant poetry community. Remember, even if someone doesn’t fully appreciate your poem, youâve still imparted bits and pieces of your thoughts and ideas to them. Perhaps, forever. Thatâs a win! Keep sharing and connecting, and watch your poetic wings spread and soar!
By taking action in these steps, you’ll not only deepen your understanding of poetry basics but also embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth as a poet. Embrace vulnerability, unleash your creativity, and refine your craftâunlock the power of poetry and let your words ignite the world.
If you enjoy reading poetry, check out my book As I Tread On – a blend of free verse, sonnets, and narrative poetry with intermediate prose pieces to suit every mood of the reader and make them feel whole again.