Don't you just love the way a poem can say so much with a few well-chosen words? As I tried to shape today's snippet into something that resembles a poem, I searched my brain for a metaphor that would bring the image to life. I did come up with one, but it doesn't feel quite right so I'll continue to do some fine tuning.
Metaphors don't come naturally to me so here is one of the books I'm reading (again) to learn more about creating metaphors. A sampling of other chapters includes: writing from memory, working with details, and adding feeling (in addition to many of Ted Kooser's own poems), makes this little book a gem for poetry lovers.
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Thinking about Langston Hughes today, I decided to share one of my all time favorite poems. I've probably read it a hundred times, and it still touches my heart.
Hi Linda, I'll also never tire of "Poem." Sometimes you just get it right, and Langston Hughes managed to do that a lot more than sometimes. For that matter, you can't go wrong with Ted Kooser either!
ReplyDeleteI have Kooser's book, and have to admit I haven't opened it yet. Now you've reminded me that I should. To aspire to write like Langston Hughes is a goal for us all I think. I love both those poems too, Linda.
ReplyDeleteI love "Poem"--it takes a master to create such sweet, resonant simplicity. The Ted Kooser book looks quite intriguing--I will check it out. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading the poems you shared. Hope your fine-tuning is fruitful.
ReplyDeleteI've gone back and read a few posts here, and I'm enjoying listening in on your self-taught course! The cottontail poem is spot on with its , isn't it?--and for that reason I actually prefer it to this particular LH poem.
ReplyDeleteLove Langston Hughes whose poetry is honest and brave yet hopeful.
ReplyDeleteWhat a touching poem, Linda. Kooser's book is also a favorite of mine
ReplyDeleteI'll have to get that Kooser book!
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