we need a forum for beginners.

[rayheinrich]

The editing technique of throwing the whole damn thing down the shite-hole is,
    while quite advanced, well worth the effort taken to perfect it.

    My favourite technique

        You're obviously quite advanced.

isn't extinction a form of perfection?

    Yes, of course!
    So... considering this in a philosophical, metaphysical (and even biblical) light:
    The way to create a perfect poem is to throw it down the shite-hole.
    (My guess is milo knew this years ago and was quite content to watch us suffer.)

i suppose it depends on your style.
sometimes I edit when the syllables aren't right, but I rarely "perfect" a poem..

A perfect poem is a rare beast, I doubt I'll ever write one but
since I've joined this site I've learned to at least aim for one and to sew up the gaping holes.

The definition of the word "perfect", only allows for a single perfect poem. All others, by definition, aren't.

I hereby define the poem below as the one and only perfect one:
Thereby saving all others from further grief.

    life
    is its own metaphor

    this cow
    on the other hand
    just shit on my foot


And yes, it all comes down to style. Who amongst us can ever be certain
just how much editing has taken place? Sometimes poems -- and you can ask
Leanne if you need to -- spring fully-formed from the forehead of Zeus.
(Gave him quite a headache.)