I once read a post stating that writers - specifically poets - do not really know the syntax and correct form of what they compose. The post also mentioned that poets should conform to these “rules”.
Well, I beg to disagree. To me, poetry is a creative form of writing. The “breadth” of ingenuity should only be limited by the poet’s imagination based on his own experiences and exposure in life. He is entitled to express himself the way he wants to, and in any form he desires. He has the freedom to create his magnum opus – that’ s why it is called a creative venture in the first place.
The written word should not however, encroach on anybody’s freedom and must not inflict harm to anyone. “There are three things you can never get back: lost opportunities, lost time and spoken words.”
Emotional wounds are more difficult to cure than physical wounds. This should be a vital consideration in the quest for that sublime work of art.
On a different note, the bond of trust should be kept and respected, no matter what the circumstances are. Now I'm starting to digress...
Back to poems! Allow me to mention two traditional types of poetry with an example for each.
The Tanka
Like the Haiku, this originated from Japan. It is composed of five lines. Lines 2, 4 & 5 are made up of seven (7) syllables, while lines 1 and 3 have five (5) syllables each. Here is my example:
Lost
Like a star, you shine,
Amidst the poets of time.
Deliriously you‘re
Lost in fame among new friends;
the old, forgotten and gone.
The ZaniLa Rhyme
This type of poetry has no required length as long as it is composed of 4 lines for every stanza. Lines 1, 3 & 4 are composed of nine (9) syllables each, while line 2 – of seven (7).
The second and fourth lines, rhyme with each other, while lines 1 and 2 don’t; however, there’s a re-arrangement of words in each of the 3rd lines. There is also an internal rhyming in this 3rd line. Here is my example:
The Cloud of SuccessThere you are, within my sight – afloat,
a mist, a soft miasma.
Glinting in a golden hue – rising,
a glorious vestige of a blue aura.
The mist grew tangible and formed,
a self-confident man.
Rising in a golden hue-glinting;
Fulfilled, successful in such short span.
Go forth, and search for your Holy Grail
a fervent wish I offer;
a golden hue, glinting and rising;
The challenges, for sure you’ll conquer!
Diverse styles were created by different poets and were then adapted formally. During the recent years; however, poets had dared to venture outside the confines of these structured poems and the free verse was born.
This goes without saying that, even if I don’t consider myself a genuine, gifted poet; no one can stop me from creating my own style!
I will name this type of poem as – ‘The Jenanian Verse”. Any violent reaction?
The Jenanian Verse
Basically, it would consist of 15 lines of free verse .
There would be 5 lines for each stanza.
Each line would be composed of 10 syllables.
The last line of each stanza would be a one - line summary of the first four lines.
All the 5th lines would be rhyming.
So here goes…
From a Mother to a Son
You tethered badly unsure of yourself ,
grasping for balance, on your baby toes.
It was a joy to grab your hand and hold
You upright, towards your goal and bright dreams
The murky, swirling waves of self-doubt gone.
You crave for my presence in all you did.
You asked, “Mother , is this okay with you?”
The treasured words, “I love you” ever there .
a day had never passed without your hi’s.
Your world, I was a part , just like a fawn.
But now you’ve sprouted wings and can stand straight.
You no longer need a firm, guiding hand.
But how delightful it would be for me,
If you just ask sincerely, “How are you?”
I miss you son, I hope you’ll visit anon.
Now, shoot me or sue me!
Kudos to all our gifted poets, Zorlone, Roy, Luke, Jim, Francis, Ken, Fiendish, Justin, and Joanne.
And yes, poems are universal! Wanna try your hand?
