The Magic of Writing: 5 Tips for the Beginner Poet
Written by Kate Gough
The written word has the power to connect, through empathy, emotion, and experience. When things go well, the writer forges a bond between themselves and the reader, through their expression of passion upon the page. However, where and how does the magic begin? What forces summon a poetic expression in a unique and engaging way? How does one connect with their audience and grow as a successful writer?
As beginner poets grapple with the myriad of emotions at the start of their journey, they must remember that every writer has been in this same position. Blank parchment taunts even the most seasoned writer. Though each journey is different, here are some basic rules of thumb when it comes to writing poetry.
Practice the Craft
This may sound obvious, but when a poet wants to bare their soul, they first must pick up the pen and simply, just, write. It can be overwhelming to think about being published, creating a network through social media, or building an audience. But before we can brew a potion of words, we must forage the forest for ingredients. Brainstorm, let every bad idea and thought on to the page, for you must turn on the tap to let the brown water run clear. It needn’t make sense, it needn’t be engaging, it must simply warm you up and get your brain working.
Write with Intention
To write with intent requires the poet to have a general idea, that can be used as a framework. It may seem tempting to mimic what is popular, or what you may think will sell better, but to create your own voice in a world of noise is to truly be an artist. Write from the heart, write what you’d want to read, write for your soul.
Be Consistent
The most overwhelming part of the process can be building an audience. It can be challenging to put in the work each day to foster a sense of community and artistry. Though it may seem tempting to rush through, the key to building an audience is consistency. Post content daily. Post content that you believe in. It may take time, but nurturing an audience that truly resonates with your work can be a fulfilling part of your writing journey.
Rejection Will Come, Opportunity Will Follow
A rite of passage for any writer is rejection. Nearly every writer has countless rejection stories, might as well make yours the preface to your success story. Take constructive criticism and grow from it. Learn to let go of harsh and unproductive critiques. And, above all else. Keep going. Keep writing. Keep submitting your work. Keep dreaming of expression.
Be Brave
To write is to be vulnerable, and vulnerability is the bravest of pursuits. Spilling your heart out can divide your audience into friends and enemies. This doesn’t mean you must stop writing. It means you must pick your battles wisely, and choose to dedicate your work to your own truth, and to the people that nurture your creativity. It can be terrifying. But the pen is mighty, and you are mightier. When you have doubts, try to remember why you started writing in the first place. It may be because you wish to connect with others. It may be because you want to explore the darkness of that which you hold dear, or to face the realities of life itself. Reconnect with why you must express, and whenever you feel afraid, know that your voice deserves to be heard.
KATE GOUGH is a Canadian based poet and a member of the online poetry community. Her work modernizes romantic literary sensibilities and explores recovery from chronic illness and trauma. Her philosophy is one close to the Danish “Hygge” which is, the celebration of cosiness. Warm socks, hot tea, and candlelight are her favourite writing tools.