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Dear Diana,
"I acknowledge my feeling and gratitude for life by praising the world and whoever made all these things."
~ Mary Oliver
Happy National Poetry Month! This is always one of my favorite months because not only do I get to review my latest favorite poetry books, but it's a time when there's a lot of national focus on poetry. In my hometown, this month, we elect our new Poet Laureate, who typically holds a two-year term. It's also a time when there are numerous poetic events to attend around town.
I'm also excited about the number of poems I've had published in the past few months, especially my new favorite form of haikus and haibuns. Many people have told me that they think I've found my form. While I'm still mastering the form, I must say I'm really enjoying the challenge.
If you have not written a poem since grade school, then this month might be a good time to try. If rhyming intimidates you, don’t worry, because modern day poetry has very little rhyme. I'm a fan of narrative poetry because, like memoir writing, it tells a story.
Poetry, the voice of the soul, is a free-flowing form of expression. The best poetry happens when you write about feelings, observations, and images as they come to you.
To become a good poet, it is important that you read a lot of poetry for inspiration and ideas about form. You can also listen to CDs of poetry being read aloud.
Here are a few prompts to consider:
1) Title your poem “I remember.” Recall an event in your life and share all the details in your poem. The reader should feel as if they are remembering along with you.
2) Write a poem about a secret you never told anyone.
3) Describe your day in a snapshot
Wishing you all happy writing. Have a great month of April!
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