Poetry writing...and suggested classics

[bookclover]

Hi,

I am new to the forum and to poetry writing. I'd like to learn a little more about how to do that so was wondering if you have any suggestion on that. Also, can you recommend any poem in particular or any classic poet I could read?

Thanks

[quasimodo1]

To Bookclover: Not an easy question. You could start in the typical university manner and read the great classics (A Norton Anthology would be good). Or you could research and read about the process (and there are many) and maybe not be too swayed by the old voices; develop your own which is the main challenge anyway. quasimodo1

[genoveva]

Below is a very basic book that I highly recommend for writing poetry:
http://www.amazon.com/Poetry-Handbook-Mary-Oliver/dp/0156724006/ref=sr_1_8/102-8971923-8760965?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1185777919&sr=1-8

As far as reading poetry, it all depends on your personal taste. What do you like to read about? What style turns you on? Yes, a compilation of a variety of poets or anthology sounds like a good start for you.

Enjoy!