Writing Poetry

Do you have a creative side?

By Annette Beach

If you were asked to write a poem, would you start with, “Roses are Red, Violets are Blue …”?

When I was younger, I thought all poetry was filled with rhyming words and painted fun images in our minds. Then I was assigned to do a book report on Edgar Allen Poe and I quickly learned, not all poetry is fun. This guy darkened my images and took the fun out of rhyming. It was an absolute struggle at the age of 13, having to stand in front of my class and read, “The Raven”.  As an adult, I can appreciate the classics, but as a kid, no thanks!

Later in my teens, I found an interest in poetry and tried creative writing. I actually liked it. Most of my poems were about deep thoughts or personal matters. Not the kind of poems I wanted to share with others. They were not too dark, just personal. 

When I started to write about fun subjects and the people in my life, I really enjoyed it. In fact, I have a copyright on one of my poems about Santa Claus and there’s been talk about turning it into a children’s book.

Overall, I think poetry can be fun and a great way to express thoughts. I have met many people who are very good at writing. Recently, a good friend of mine has attended a few poetry readings. She’s an excellent writer and on her way to publishing (at least that’s my opinion).

How do you feel about poetry? Have you written anything? Do you have a favorite poem? Or, have you read one recently that has had an impact on you? Please share them with us.