POETRY WRITING TIPS

1.      Read lots of poems. In fact, read a lot of anything if you want to produce better writing.

2.      Write poems as often as you can.

3.      Designate a special note book (or space in your note book) for poetry writing.

4.      Try writing in form (sonnets, haiku, etc.)

5.      Use imagery.

6.      Embrace metaphors but stay away from clichés.

7.      Sign up for a poetry writing workshop.

8.      Expand your vocabulary.

9.      Read poems over and over (and loud). Consider and analyze them.

10.  Join a poetry forum or poetry group online.

11.  Study musicality in writing (rhythm and meter).

12.  Use poetry prompts when you are stuck.

13.  Be funny. Make a funny poem.

14.  Notice what makes others’ poems memorable, capture it, mix it up, and make it your own.

15.  Try poetry writing exercise when you have got writer’s block.

16.  Memorize a poem (or two, or more)

17.  Revise and rewrite your poems to make them stronger and more compelling.

18.  Study biographies of famous (or not-so –famous ) poets.

19.  Have fun with puns.

20.  Don’t be afraid to write a bad poem. You can write a better poem later.

21.  Find unusual subject matter – a teapot, a shelf, a wall.

22.  Use language that people can understand.

23.  Meditate or listen to inspirational music before writing poems to clear your mind and gain focus.

24.  Keep a note book with you at all times so you can write whenever (and wherever ) inspiration strikes.

25.  Submit your poems to literary magazines and journalists

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26.  When you submit work, accept rejection and try again. You can do it and you will.

27.  Get a website or a blog and publish your poems.

28.  Connect with other poets to share and discuss the craft that is poetry writing.

29.  Attend poetry reading or slam event.

30.  Subscribe to a poetry podcast and listen to poetry.

31.  Support poets and poetry by buying books and magazines that feature poetry.

32.  Write with honesty. Don’t back away from your thoughts or feelings. Express them!

33.  Don’t be afraid to experiment. Mix art and music with your poetry. Perform it and publish it.

34.  Eliminate all unnecessary words, phrases and lines. Make every word count.

35.  Write a poem every single day.

36.  Read a poem every single day.

(gotten from www.writing forward.com)