Tuesday, August 31, 2010

What is Poetry?

These three writers have three very different conceptions of what poetry is and what it means to be a poet. How do you define poetry? Keep your answer concise, and as poetic as possible. Consider using a metaphor the way that Rich and Neruda as you develop your definition.


"Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings”

-William Wordsworth


“Poems are like dreams; in them you put what you don’t know you know”

-Adrienne Rich


“I have always maintained that the writer’s task has nothing to do with mystery or magic, and that the poet’s, at least, must be a personal effort for the benefit of all. The closest thing to poetry is a loaf of bread or a ceramic dish or a piece of wood lovingly carved, even if by clumsy hands”

-Pablo Neruda

21 comments:

  1. The art of our thoughts and stories put into words.

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  2. Poetry is like the thoughts that come out the hearts own brain, filled with much passion and significance that the reader can feel its might beats.

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  3. "Poetry is a melting pot of expression"

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  4. Poetry is a way of expression using short sentences or phrase to captivate the mind of readers... sometimes making them think abstract.. "outside the box"

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  5. Poetry is a way for me to strike people in the heart. I let my entire soul out when I write and I make people feel what I am trying to express. For me, poetry is about emotion.

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  6. Poetry is the way you see and feel about certain people, objects, etc. Its never right or wrong.

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  7. Poetry is experience, interpretation and expression.

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  8. poetry is a form of art that creates visions in our mind.

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  9. a way of expressing your feelings in your own unique way,using creative words to make it interesting.

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  10. Poetry is the freedom to express yourself through your writing without rules.To have someone related to your feelings without discussing it.

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  11. Poetry is a tool of expressions it is like opening a portal of feelings and thoughts

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  12. Poetry is a way of expression using short sentences or phrase to captivate the mind of readers... sometimes making them think abstract.. "outside the box"

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  13. I think that poetry can illustrate anything that you feel at anytime. Poetry cannot be judged, only explored.
    -Shaey.

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  14. Poetry is a discrete outburst of an indiviual's thoughts and feelings that they fear to share. It is also their way of speaking to the world without using their voice, But with words.
    -Emilee Persaud

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  15. poetry is the reflection of a painted mind. -darnell

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  16. poetry is a way to express our feeling.

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  17. Sarah,
    "Poetry explores people's mind when it comes to the art of writing, at the same time people can be creative as they have their own idea into writing poetry".

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  18. Poetry is my way to channel my inner most thoughts and feelings about everything in my life.

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