Begin the poem with a certain rhythm
and stay with that rhythm.
Prose poems are fine, but
they must at least contain a certain rhythm
to be considered a prose poem.
For example, in case you haven't guessed
this message is neither a poem
nor a prose poem. It is prose
divided by stanzas.
Never write or talk down
to the reader or listener.
Treat them as equals to yourself.
Relate to the listener or reader
Something they don't know.
Avoid telling them something
they already know.
Avoid generalities. If you are going to write
about love or hate or war or peace or death
or any other general thing, show
the reader or listener the thing, don't tell.
Compose your poem by showing the reader or listener
the smell of death, the sound of war, the feel of love,
you get the idea. Related to this is the use
of cliches. Avoid them when possible.
The poet should hope her or his message
is comprehended and appreciated
by the listener or reader. Anything else
is a bonus. Anything else
is probably undeserved.
I could relate more to you
but I think this is enough
for now. All serious poets
whether young or old know
too much of something
is just as bad as too little.
A final word: The ending of a poem
is just as important as the beginning.
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