In some of my earlier sonnets I tried to fit too much in. Every time I look at “Dissolution”, a very early work that was featured on a riverside mural, I am reminded of this. It was a historical narrative stuffed into fourteen lines. I have found the best works arise where I’m simply apposing … Continue reading In Apposition
Writing poems
Strategies for Writing a New Poem
I know some prefer to tap or scribble their way into a new piece of writing without forethought. Some are lucky enough to capture a stream of consciousness that can be edited into an original work. However, a period of reflection benefits my writing enormously, allowing me to find an angle on some initial idea. … Continue reading Strategies for Writing a New Poem
Sonnet or Not – The Bref Double Form
Do you write poetry in free verse? Or do you prefer the discipline of forms? Perhaps you see the sonnet form as difficult? Well, the form discussed this month is easier to use than the sonnet form. Maybe this will encourage you to try it out. The sonnet is characterized through several key features: it … Continue reading Sonnet or Not – The Bref Double Form
Sonnet Sequences – Part Two
In last month’s blog, I covered a range of definitions of where sonnets gather together in ones, twos and larger herds. Now let’s look at coherence between them. FAMILIAL TIES As with any creation in any medium there is a balance to be found within sequences between variety and coherence. Variety may be engendered through: … Continue reading Sonnet Sequences – Part Two
Sonnet Sequences – Part One
Vast herds of sonnets roam over the plains of literature. Where are they migrating to? Will the weakest be picked off by predators? One amongst them may be the pride of the herd. And what bonds them together? This month, I would like to touch upon the different types of sonnet sequences. Although I’ve tried … Continue reading Sonnet Sequences – Part One
Clifford Liles 