Since joining Gather I've been reading lots of prose and poetry. Not that I didn't do it before but not in such volume and concentration. I was trying to think of the personalities behind the writings. From what little I know of the authors, I came up with some very general profiles. This led me to more questions, as there didn't seem to be a common thread among the poets and the prose writers. So, what are the differences? What draws a poet to poetry? What draws a prose writer to prose?
For me, as a prose writer, I enjoy my characters. Watching them come to life on the written page is always amazing to me. I may have an idea of who they are but they always jump off my track and develop their own personas.
Another aspect of writing for me is the descriptive, describing the scene, the physical characteristics, and the mood. As a people watcher, I have a lot to draw on and often do.
As a basic personality or character trait, I enjoy being alone. I'm not a person that requires a lot of company or interaction with others. In fact, when I am in the space of writing, it is probably best not to be around me. I can get quite testy with interruption.
What about poets? What characteristics within themselves allow them to write the sparse verse and yet elicit such emotion?
Tell me about yourselves, poet and prose writer. What do you think leads you to one or the other or both?
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Comments: 19
You all seem to have dual-talents. I've never really attempted poetry. Not sure why except I suspect it takes a lot of patience, which is not one of my skills.
Lisa, I too am glad you are writing poetry. Do you have any posted here?
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U wishing you laughter
I am not a watcher, I should probably venture into the genre and see what I come up with.
I dont describe what "could be" as well as what "is".
Does that make any sense?
i am definitely ditzy today.
Good thought provoking article Sandra.
Yes, Peter, they are hard to do! Polishing and rewriting and editing. It's a long and arduous process but so worth it when you finally look at it and say, 'all right. Now we can give birth."
Ivy, I love that "making a monument out of a moment." Yes, that is it exactly.
Peace, yes, that makes perfect sense. Thank you for the compliment. I love making people think.
Several of you said you write both, I started with poetry in high school..then went to creative writing and into prose. I love to tell stories. Verbally and on paper. we don't think about the tales we tell each other throughout the day to those around us. I have had a poem or two published, but never have submitted a writing. doesn't stop me from writing though!
Thanks for this topic. I really like it.
An instructional guidance piece on going for the gold with pen to paper ! I assure all at first in this career, iis not the immediate income I am after; rather the immediate gratification I get when someone reads a piece of mine and smiles, laughs, sighs or cries. It also is an opportunity for me to absorb constructive criticism which . . .
Click to see where criticism takes this writer