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Poetry might seem intimidating, but at its heart, it’s simply a way of expressing thoughts and feelings in a unique, memorable way. Whether you want to write a short verse or a longer piece, here are some easy steps to get you started with how to write a poem.
How to Write a Poem: 5 Basic Steps
1. Start with a Strong Idea
The first step in how to write a poem is to relax. Don’t worry about rhyming or meter right away. Begin with a single, clear idea. What do you want to write about? It could be an emotion like joy or sadness, a memory from your childhood, a beautiful object you saw, or a vivid thought you can’t shake. The more specific your idea, the easier it will be to write.
2. Use Sensory Details
Good poems don’t just tell; they show. Engage the reader’s senses. Instead of writing, “I was sad,” try to describe what sadness feels like. What does it taste like? What does it sound like? Use imagery to paint a picture with words. For example, “The sadness tasted like cold coffee, and sounded like a distant train.” This makes the emotion real and relatable.
3. Play with Language
Poetry is all about playing with words. Don’t be afraid to use metaphors and similes to create powerful comparisons. A simile uses “like” or “as” (e.g., “The moon was like a silver coin”), while a metaphor states that something is something else (e.g., “The moon was a silver coin”). These comparisons can make your writing more evocative and interesting.
4. Find Your Rhythm
Poetry doesn’t always have to rhyme, but it should have a rhythm. Read your poem out loud to yourself. Listen to the natural flow of the words. Are there moments where the rhythm feels off? Adjust the words or line breaks until it feels right. The rhythm is what gives a poem its unique musical quality.
5. Revise and Edit
The first draft is never the final draft. Read your poem again and look for places where you can make it stronger. Can you use a more specific word? Can you cut any unnecessary words? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different words or phrases. A little bit of revision can turn a good poem into a great one.
Originally Published August 11, 2023
