I used to be rather free and unrestrained in my poetry and some results were rather sloppy. Now I am growing into using forms. Frequently matching the content with the form is a bit tricky, but the results can be very pleasing. So now I use this framework idea and the question becomes which comes first, the form or the substance and how do I match them.
I have been exploring interesting poetry forms. Some are fun and some are hard work and push the imagination to meet the rules of the form.
Here are two opposing forms. The first is fun and easy and will probably see a fair amount of use. The second is quite challenging. The rules of the second call for each line to start with the next letter in the alphabet. This is a challenge of vocabulary and of containing a thought stream while doing this. I think I did okay on the second poem, but doubt I will use the form often.
Rusty At Eleven
The old dog does not chase the toy
he curls up in his own small bed
his cataract eyes have dim sight
he guides his movement with the walls
and walks with slow and careful step.
His owner no longer a boy
now softly caresses his head
walks him slowly in warm sunlight
carries him when his energy fails
with a secure yet gentle grip.
At his name, dog eyes fill with joy
though only a comfortable thread
not dancing with youth so bright—
and sometimes it takes several calls—
his hearing has taken a dip.
Love ages with darkness and light,
content raises—excitement falls,
patience waxes and fervor slips.
Peace in Letters
Ambling in the shadows
beneath the mighty trees;
comfort in the coolness
drowsy with buzz of bees.
Easy springtime afternoon—
forest, or brooks, or leas
grants commune with nature
holds harmonies to please.
Iridescent ripples
jig gaily on the brook
kiss imagination
like similes in a book.
Memories are made of
nebulous finger crook.
Oh, the wondrous visions,
please just come and look.
Quietude all around
reverie is born
sussurating secrets
tempting fables morn.
Usurp romance's charm
view snow white unicorn
while away the hours
x out all thoughts forlorn.
Youth is state of mind
Zen will guide you to find.