Acrostic Poetry
Man
May I know you how?
Antithesis of snow be
Not storm, flurry nor fall
The above poem is an example of an acrostic poem. Acrostic poetry takes shape by having a capitalised word down the page. For example a poem titled Man begins as:
M
A
N
The letters in the title now become the initial letter of each line of your poem. This form of poetry then uses the title as the main topic.
Man as a main topic is, of course, huge. In order to deal with any given topic I like to jot down other key words and ideas. On this occasion my other key words are the following:
Other Key Words
Snow
Storm
Flurry
Fall &
Antithesis
Yes, it’s been snowing where I live lately. Using what’s around you is an important part of the process in any form of writing poetry is no exception.
Making Comparisons &
Considering Differences
A great way to keep motivated when writing poetry is to think about how two entities might compare and how they might differ.
Key Ideas
When I think of MAN what do I think about? In this instance, I am thinking about how my main topic compares with my other key words: how man compares with nature.
As an example, of how I considered comparisons and differences with in this poem, let’s take a look at one of my key words.
Antithesis means in direct contrast. I have used the word to emphasise that in order to know man I compare him to snow and snow like whether conditions.
I then use the word not alongside some of my other key words (storm, flurry and fall). This is to suggest that at the point at which I feel I understand man and can compare him to an entity I understand: snow at first sight is always soft and pleasant. Yet the pleasant appearance of snow can hide the havoc it can bring and its initial appearance over time gives way to a complex and sometimes impassable landscape.
Man is also more complex than any first impression can reveal, hence, my use of the words storm, flurry and fall. This is because snow can also mean snowstorm snow-flurry and snowfall and it shows how the climate like man is a multi-faceted and complex subject.
Top Tip: Discuss Ideas with a Partner
Writing poetry is a solitary occupation but it does not have to be, try bounding ideas around with a writing partner or a group of friends. Give each other ideas or focus on different aspects of the same topic.
Even if you decide to go it alone it’s great to have that second opinion and remember a writing partner can also proofread for errors in spelling, if nothing else.
A Photograph in Time
Poems can be enhanced with photography. Here at IPoetry TV, we like to call it Poe-tography. Yes, we made it up!
With this in mind how does one take the perfect image to encapsulate words written on a page? In our example, our main topic is MAN. There’s our start.
People in photographs make for interesting subjects. Take the opportunity to study how people can be used in your images.
Inspiration now becomes your new motivation. Think particularly about the insight you have towards your given topic. How much involvement you have with the subject will also give you numerous ideas to create great photographs and poems alike.
Composition is another very important element in a photograph. Think of composition also in terms of what’s in the background of your piece.
If you have written your poem already you will have a head start: Although trying to incorporate the elements of a poem into one image might not be all that easy, you now have something concrete to work with.
Alternatively, with your key words in mind just go out and shoot several images. In turn, this may give you more ideas about your poetry.
As a reminder, mine were:
Snow
Storm
Flurry
Fall &
Antithesis
Subject is, I believe, another important aspect to consider when shooting that all important image. This is your theme, in other words, what you want your images to be about.
Have you spotted my second acrostic? Of course you have!
People
Inspiration
Composition
Subject
Today’s Final Note
We at the I Poetry TV Team are looking for those budding poets who wish to become instructors. While we make every opportunity to respond to your individual queries, we are particularly keen to see your poetry and media contributions; so why not take the opportunity to send us your work via our facebook pages or enter the competition we are currently running. Send your Poe-tography to: submissions@ipoetrycompetitons.com
The more we see what you can do and get a feel of your dedication and commitment to the business of poetry and media the more we see ourselves working with you in the future.
Key Points to Remember
In Acrostic Poetry begin by using a capitalised word or words down the front of your page.
Use your capitalised word as the main topic of your poem and other key words to enhance the topic even further.
Work with others as a way to discuss, strengthen and be each other’s editors.
Photography can be used as an added motivator and also can be incorporated into your final piece of work: Poe-tography
Submit your work to a variety of sources and enter competitions as a way of gaining exposure for your work.
Continue to follow the rest of these articles in our poetry-e-series for more tips and ideas.
UNTIL NEXT TIME, WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU.
The IPoetry TV Team
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