On Writing Contemporary Poetry
Are contemporary poets wallowing in meaningless rubbish?
Can they be called poets whose works are incomprehensible?
Without regard for meter, rhyme, or rhythm, I think, gibberish,
They’re line after line of words strung together, nonsensible.
With a background in forensics, I should be able to understand.
I should be able, at a minimum, to determine consistent themes,
After finishing some of these “poems,” I am wont to demand
Audience with the writer for explanation, unlikely as that seems.
Let’s take this poem, as an example of what I am writing about
The theme is clear; the words and phrases easily understood
The rhymes are consistent, ABAB, not forced, or, leaving doubt
It may not be considered a good poem but does what it should.
Under the guise of inventing “new” forms, I’m reading few gems
Learn old forms, I tell students, before setting out on your own.
Do not disregard them because you are too lazy to master them
You are unlikely to discover a variation that isn’t already known.
An acceptable format which permits some allowable formations
Free Verse offers the best opportunity for a free-wheeling style,
Many well-known classical poets made use of its finer variations
For best results, you probably need to go down the center aisle.
Written June 12, 2022
Copyright © L Milton Hankins | Year Posted 2022
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem.
Please
Login
to post a comment