A Diehard Viewpoint

By luigi_pagano

Thu, 11 Aug 2022
  • 715 reads
4 comments
 

A poem can be written
without any rhyme
but unrhymed verses
for me do not chime.

Poetic compositions
have to be rhythmical
and their clarity
is absolutely critical.

If we write an ode
that is not obscure
its appreciation
is bound to endure.

It is not wrong
to want to copy
the great poets
but don't be soppy.

Sometimes trying
to  be a mimic
may be considered
to be just a gimmick.

But if we intend
to use irony
we can't go wrong
with a parody.

When well-written,
I am not averse
to appreciating
the odd blank verse.

Yet, in the end,
it must be stressed,
the aim for us is
to achieve the best.

 

© Luigi Pagano 2022

Certificate U
Poem
Mutevoli pensieri
Opinion

Comments

Submitted by Rhiannonw on

A number of interesting points, Luigi.

I would say that rhyme used wisely can help impact and memory of verse. Some have been put off by forced rhyming that intrudes on common sense, ie makes for doggerel. So far better free verse than such, and it can be very effective in impact if words are well chosen and brief, and some other devices used eg some internal rhyme or alliteration skilfully applied.

I do have a problem with obscurity though. I think it is partly, my mind doesn't pick up readily if things are assuming minds 'making the jump/connection' of meaning. Sometimes it is said, if you ask the meaning, it can mean whatever you like to each person. I find that unsatisfying. I want to know what the writer meant, but if many seem to understand, one doesn't want to ask! Sometimes comments by others help me to 'see' what I was being a bit thick about! Rhiannon

 

Submitted by luigi_pagano on

I absolutely agree with all your points, Rhiannon. I am not dismissing blank verse as I have pointed out in the penultimate stanza, I am expressing my personal preference. As you rightly say one has to be careful about forced rhyming and try to produce good poetry, not doggerels. I think I have identified some of the main factors to aim for, i.e. rhythm and clarity and my philosophy is summed up in the last verse. Thanks for your useful feedback.

Luigi x

 

Submitted by skinner_jennifer on

Hi Luigi,

I don't really have any idea what makes a good poet, I'm learning from others all the time. But one thing's for sure, writing has to be enjoyed otherwise there's no point to it. My appreciation of poetry is when a writer really feels the emotions of what they're trying to convey, and the reader picks up on that mood and feeling.

As long as it makes you happy, is all that counts.

Thanks for sharing this poem Luigi, it made me think.

Jenny. xx 

 

Submitted by luigi_pagano on

Dear Jenny, I can't tell you what makes a good poet, I can only repeat the dictionary's definition of poetry I: "literary work in which the expression of feelings and ideas is given intensity by the use of distinctive style and rhythm; poems collectively or as a genre of literature.". I believe that as long as one is able to convey said feelings and emotions in the required distinctive form, the chances of being appreciated largely increase. The number of accolades you receive should reassure you that people recognise you as a good poet.

 

Luigi xx