Day 293: Amateur's Guide to Writing Poetry

This was a response to a Lu Ji's ideas about the labors and rewards of writing.

Amateur’s Guide to Writing Poetry

When I read a poem by Rita Dove or Shakespeare,

I wonder how my scratching scribblings can compare

to their masterpieces? Even now, I pause

to choose the most effective word but think

Lu Ji’s crafting far surpasses mine. But,

I take heart at this advice: use vivid words,

For vividness engages the imagination.

Phrases must not be cliché- should be precise.

Remember that you stray before you make it.

Ideas should not be stolen, for what is the point

of writing without originality? Sometimes,

writers feel apprehension for sharing their poems,

but they must be brave. There is always

another like-minded person out there.