The next project I’m going to be working on is putting together a book of my poetry. When I was a teenager I wrote a poem almost every single day. Now I only write poems occasionally but always enjoy that style of writing. I came to the realization I have been writing poetry for over a decade. It doesn’t seem like I’m old enough to be doing anything for a decade. When you put things in terms of decades it makes you sound….seasoned (I know you were thinking “old”).
I’m trying to decide on a size so I can start formatting my book. I pulled three poetry books from my shelf and here are the common sizes.
I think I prefer the small pocket size of Emily Dickenson’s poems. To me, it seems more portable and more of a classic design. Next, I need to decide if I want just words or if I should include some photos. I did a scrapbook of sorts of my poems and favorite readings when I was in high school that included a picture to go along with each poem. I love flipping through there because the photos help convey the meaning of the poems. So maybe I will include some pictures.
I ran across my favorite poem by Emily Dickenson:
“Hope” is the thing with feathers –
That perches in the soul –
And sings the tune without the words –
And never stops – at all –
And sweetest – in the Gale – is heard –
And sore must be the storm –
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm –
I’ve heard it in the chillest land –
And on the strangest Sea –
Yet – never – in Extremity,
It asked a crumb – of me.
I memorized this poem in high school and it came flooding back as I read it again. Such a beautiful metaphor. I only hope my poetry is half as good as Emily’s. She’s one of my favorites.
Who is your favorite poem writer? Tell me in the comments and give any thoughts on the size or design of my upcoming poetry book.
My favorite poet is Kaylee Berry.