Poetry – Homestead on the Range

The Poet’s Toolbox: Sound

The final tool in the poet’s toolbox, sound, is by no means the least important. In fact, this auditory element is one of the things that sets poetry apart from prose.

The Poet’s Toolbox: Rhyme

Rhyme is one area where purists are most likely to critique your work. The key is to use rhyme deliberately and with due consideration of the intended effect.

The Poet’s Toolbox: Meter

The meter is the beat of the poem. A pattern of emphasized and unemphasized syllables is one of the ways in which poetry differs from prose.

The Poet’s Toolbox: Language

Part of writing poetry is choosing exactly the right word. The right word leaves your reader or listener hungry for more.

The Poet’s Toolbox: Perspective

One of the greatest factors in the impact and effectiveness of a poem is its perspective. By this we mean subject matter, voice, and setting.

The Poet’s Toolbox: Form

Form may cover such aspects as the rhyme scheme or the number of syllables per line.

Something Old, Something New

Just a few hours out and a few hours back,
Winding down backroads and seeing the view,

The Poet’s Toolbox: Introduction

Understanding the technical side of poetry can help us when we’re stuck in a rut or need to revise a verse for greater impact.

Thank You, God, for Kansas

Thank You, God, for making wind,
For the mighty storms that You send;
Thank You for the rainbow’s bend.
Thank You, God, for Kansas.

The Prose Poetry of Walt Mason

Although Walt Mason’s poetry is now largely forgotten except by dedicated history buffs, in his own day “Uncle Walt” was the most widely read poet in America.