Don't Force It

Say that you sit down to write a stunning haiku and the syllable count just doesn't work out, write it anyway. The restriction of haiku is self-imposed. Write what wants to come out, it may result in a more satisfying free verse. Once you're done, that haiku may be hidden in what you've written.

I don't know how many times I've sat down to write something and it just didn't work. The poem that was so good in my mind just wouldn't stay as a poem but made a great couple of paragraphs. There have been times when I've taken my finished paragraphs and written the poem from it. In this case, you may be able to avoid frustration in not accomplishing what you set out to do. You may also accomplish twice as much.

There's nothing worse than a forced rhyme. If it takes that much forcing, maybe it would be better not to rhyme. Rhyming poetry is probably one of the most difficult things to write. Rhyming, itself, is easy. Creating a natural sounding rhyming poem is much more challenging. It may be that most of use attempt to use the end rhyme or perfect rhyme. There are so many other options available. And, there's also the option of not rhyming at all.

Consider it brainstorming if you just start writing wildly about your chosen topic. Put down as much as you can without worrying about wording, images, and anything. Simply write. Later, you can crawl through what you spouted and pull out the finer morsels. Use these morsels to create the perfect meal. This is, by the way, one way to stir up the juices of inspiration.