Reading, writing, and analyzing poetry are different aspects of the one genre. In my opinion, the only similarity between the three is that they all involve poetry. Reading poetry is an art form all on its own. For example, there are slam competitions, which emphasize showmanship while reciting poetry. These competitions are about emotion and body language when certain words or lines are being said. As for analyzing poetry, this skill requires the person to be well-versed in all forms poetry takes. As I participated in all of these activities that pertain to poetry, I can confidently say that they are different. Poetry is a versatile art form; to be a true poet, one must master all its forms.
Not one side helped me with the other. As I said before, I think they are different aspects of poetry. Each element of poetry is a skill that can be mastered independently. I can understand how to analyze poetry, but it does not translate well. Each component of poetry has its own set of rules and methods. The way I analyzed poetry could not help me write it. Writing poetry requires a specific skill set to manipulate words and sounds to fit any of the many themes poetry can take form.
Poetry is a dying art form. Students nowadays only want to learn topics that will help them in the long run. There is nothing wrong with poetry, but it is a niche art form only used by a small group. Rap is a form of poetry, which may be the music genre that keeps poetry alive. Besides that, I do not see how a poet is meant to make any money in this environment. For that reason alone, poetry is not a worthwhile skill to learn.
Hi Juan, thank you for sharing your perspective on poetry. It seems you’re not a fan, but I understand it’s not for everyone. Your views spark interesting conversations. I believe that both writing poetry and writing about it require a deep engagement with language and the exploration of feelings, yet they serve different purposes. I found it interesting that writing about poetry and writing poetry did not help you. True, there are many techniques and styles in poetry, and poets seem gifted at manipulating words and sounds to create layered, intricate works that require careful unpacking. While it can be difficult, I believe poetry should be fun. If we don’t sound like those prolific poets, that’s totally okay. What matters is having fun with it to capture a moment, express feelings, or tell a story. Awww…I hope poetry isn’t dying! As a hopeless romantic, I see poetry as a form of romanticism. Just like a song can serenade, poetry can too. I believe poetry lays the foundation for rap and songwriters.
ReplyDeleteHello Juan thank you for your blog post on poetry I really enjoyed reading it. I like how you give praise to the art form of poetry and its different complexities. All three components you listed you explain to be completely different from your experiences. I like that you highlight the skills it takes to accomplish reading, writing, or analyzing poetry.
ReplyDeleteI found it interesting that you didn't find it helpful to practice all different components to help the other. My experience was pretty different but I wonder what you feel like should be done for students that are in similar situations as you were. Do you feel as though poetry is an art form that some are just not meant to master? Is it possible there are born poets and others are just not able to channel that type of art form?
I found it interesting that you say poetry is a dying art form but then reference rap one of the largest growing genres in the music industry. Poetry is one of their skills that can make or break them from a one hit wonder to a rap legend. Just as you said poetry is arguably the largest component to their work. It feels that you have had a negative experience with the way you were given the material. I would love to hear how you think your experience could have been changed for the better or if you are doomed to be a poetry hater for life.