Writing Tips: Poetry

Poetry is one of the largest genres of literature. Some people find it boring or too hard to write, but most people don't recognize the vast types of poetry that exist. There are many different types of poetry from, rhyming and non rhyming to three lines haikus to page long epics. No matter what type of poetry, there is some type of poetry for everyone. Poetry can be easily used to express emotions, tell a story, or just express a burst of creativity. Here are just some of the basics for those who want to start writing poetry.

Rhyme Scheme

This is what most people think of poetry when you sat the word poetry, most of them go by the rhyme scheme of ABAB. Other types of rhyme schemes include couplets which are paired lines that rhyme (ex: AA BB CC). Rhyming seems easy enough to do, especially with  websites like RhymeZone.com easily accessible, but the problem most people face is writing forced rhymes. Forces rhymes occur when your writing a poem with a particular rhyme scheme and struggle to find a word that fits, so you make an awkward phrase in order to include a rhyming word Forced rhymes never sound good, so if you're not the kind of person that likes rhyming, then go with a different type of poetry.

Free Verse

With free verse poems, you basically have all of the freedom you want while writing. There's no specific rhyme scheme you have to follow, it can have as many lines as you want, and the lines can be as long or as short as you want. The only thing with free verse poetry you need to watch out for is rhythm. Even if the poem doesn't have to rhyme, it is still important to make sure the words flow well. Avoid mixing long and short lines, keep all of your lines around the same length, and read it out loud to make sure it flows well.

Haiku

Haikus are one of the simplest and easiest types of poetry to write. Haikus are three lined poems with a five syllable line, followed by a seven syllable line, and then another five syllable line. Haikus don't have to rhyme and can be about anything you want them to be, but most are usually about nature. They usually don't take long to write, and once you get started, before you know it you have a whole page full of haikus.

Sonnet

Sonnets are one of the more difficult and complicated poems to write. They have a very strict rhyme scheme and number of lines. All sonnets must have 14 lines and follow the rhyme scheme of ABAB CDCD EFEF GG. Although they are more complicated to write, it doesn't mean they are impossible or hard to do. People who excel at writing poems with rhyme schemes will find sonnets easier to write then people who prefer free verse.

Here are just some basic forms of poetry, and are by all means not the only kinds. Overall with poetry, you really have the freedom to write whatever you want. The different types of poems are so vast, it's not hard to find something you like writing. So the next time you pick up a pen or get in the writing mood, try writing poetry for a chance, and don't be scared. You might discover a new talent!

~K.M.D.