Poetry & Writing a Story

[Drachenseele3]

What's poetry? So often I read it and fall in love, though I never remember the author. But when I sit down and say "okay, you can do this. Just let the words flow..." Then I read it over... and it looks like a dictionary threw up on the paper :skep: Is this something you have to posses a specific skill to that I utterly lack, or is it practice?
I have somewhat the same feeling about writing. I want to write a story. It's been on my chest for years. I have pages written down. But I'm too self critical to let people see :prrr: On other websites I've posted it and I've gotten pretty forward feedback. Not that I'm necessarily bothered by it but it makes me think twice about letting more people see it. Like for instance, I want to post it here! On the forums, but.... if I'm just going to get nasty feedback should I even bother writing it and letting people see? I've constantly stated that I'm not at all concerned about the GRAMMAR. I know I stink at GRAMMAR. But my main concern is to just get IT OUT. I want to know what people think of my character development, plot build up, and maybe my scenery explanation. Is that okay to ask for? Is that too much to ask for?
This is just a few things that have been on my mind and need/want answers. :)

[Revolte]

I think it's sort of a skill building deal. While the images in your mind being put into words are your own, stuff like form and placements are things you can learn. Think of the structure as music notes, while at first your fingers probably wont make the right sound, then get a little better and so on and so on and you never really stop growing at your ability (aside from writers block).

As for grammar, poetry, short stories and constructive criticism help out a lot with that. I'm much better with mine these days just from posting here. Granted I still suck with "it's/its" and "sense/since". But still, better.