(01-28-2013, 01:42 AM)midnightsun Wrote: Hello, I am new here and would like some advice on how to continue my growth as a poet. Here are some questions regarding this:
1. What are the biggest wastes of time in becoming a better poet?
I think Rowens is giving good advice here, becoming paralyzed by needing to be good will stifle your growth. Realize that you will write crap, give yourself permission to write crap. Commit to getting good through revision. Essentially, if you get self conscious you'll write less and it will take longer to improve.
2. What are your favorite instructional books/videos and resources on poetry?
Poetry itself. While I did add technique books to my library reading a lot of poetry is the best way to end up writing better.
3. What are the biggest mistakes you see many beginning poets make?
They overwrite, use cliches, are too sensitive to criticism, tell the reader things instead of showing it with imagery, and they use a lot of abstractions (pain, sorrow, etc).
4. Even at the higher skill levels, which mistakes are most common?
They vary. The better you get the more mistakes you see.
5. What are the stupid myths about poetry that you hear over and over again?
That it takes talent, or being wasted to be good. That it isn't a lot of work.
6. What are your key principles for becoming a better poet?
Write every day. Read a lot of poetry. Learn how to evaluate and take criticism.
Thanks in advance!
The secret of poetry is cruelty.--Jon Anderson