Poetry, often perceived as an intimidating art form, is, in reality, a vast and accessible ocean. From the sing-song rhythms of Dr. Seuss that captivate children to the profound depths of Shakespeare and Emily Dickinson, poetry offers something for everyone. This guide to poetry aims to demystify the world of verse and provide you with the tools to discover, read, and appreciate it on your own terms.
Choosing Poetry to Read
The beauty of poetry lies in its personal nature. What resonates with one person may not resonate with another, and that’s perfectly fine. There’s no right or wrong way to begin exploring this art form. Poetry anthologies are an excellent starting point, offering a diverse range of voices and styles within specific themes, time periods, or locations.
For continuous discovery, consider exploring literary magazines, subscribing to poetry publications, or signing up for daily poem emails. Podcasts like Poetry Unbound, hosted by Pádraig Ó Tuama, provide thoughtful and immersive audio experiences, guiding you through carefully selected poems. Once you find a poet whose work resonates with you, delve into their influences to uncover even more hidden gems.
Reading a Poem: A Step-by-Step Approach
So, you’ve selected a poem – now what? Here’s a process to help you savor and understand the verse you’re reading:
1. Examine the Title and Shape
Before diving into the words, take a moment to consider the visual aspects of the poem. How does it appear on the page? Is it a neatly structured stanza, a sprawling narrative, or a playful concrete poem?
Next, consider the title. How does it make you feel? How does it relate to the poem’s form? Does the shape reinforce the emotion conveyed by the title, or does it offer a contrasting perspective?
2. Read the Poem Naturally
Approach the poem with an open mind, reading it as you would anything else. Don’t feel pressured to analyze every line immediately. Instead, focus on your initial impressions. Where do you react emotionally? What feelings arise as you read? Allow the poem to draw something out of you.
3. Re-Read for Meaning
If the poem captivates you, a second reading can reveal deeper layers of meaning. Look up unfamiliar words or historical contexts that might enrich your understanding.
Consider the speaker of the poem. Is it the poet, an omniscient narrator, or a specific character? Who is the intended audience? Pay attention to word choices, repetitions, and line breaks, looking for clues that unveil the poem’s underlying themes and intentions. Look for the “turn,” the moment where the poem pivots or offers a surprise.
4. Re-Read for Sound (Out Loud)
Poetry is inherently musical. Reading a poem aloud, or listening to a recording, allows you to experience its rhythm, cadence, and sonic texture.
Mary Oliver Reading Her Poetry
Pay attention to rhyme, alliteration, and the interplay of vowel sounds. How do these elements contribute to the overall feeling and impact of the poem? Sound is intentional in poetry.
5. Add Context
Finally, return to the beginning and consider the poem in its broader context. How does the title relate to the poem as a whole? Does the shape contribute to its meaning? Research the author’s background and the historical period in which the poem was written.
Understanding the context can illuminate the poem’s purpose and its connection to the world around it. What is the poem yearning for?
Embracing the Journey
Reading poetry is a journey of personal discovery. There’s no single “right” way to approach it. Be open to new experiences, trust your instincts, and allow the poems that resonate with you to guide you on your path. Which poems speak directly to your heart? Those are the ones to hold onto.
Poetry is a gift, waiting to be unwrapped. Embrace the adventure and discover the beauty and power that lies within its verses.
