12 Good Reasons for Writing a Poem

• It helps you express what you feel and think
• It can show others where you’ve been/what you’ve seen
• It can keep you sane when you’re on the brink
• You can express reality or a dream
• It can be a way of looking after you
• A safe place for anger and violent thoughts
• A way to calm down when you want to hit the roof
• Or when you’re feeling sad or overwrought
• You can play on your own shaping words like clay
• It makes you feel good when you get it right
• You’ll be developing skills in different ways
• It’s something you can do whether day or night 
  
  

Now read that again, but this time read it out loud. 

As a poet, I’m often asked where my inspiration comes from.  My answer is always the same – it can come from anywhere. 

When I was asked to write this article about writing poetry, I thought instead of just writing about it, I would write a poem about it.  The poem, itself, demonstrates what a poem can do: 

 - Keep you focused

 - Say a lot in a few lines

 - Get right to the heart of things 

I believe anyone who has a thought or an opinion could write a poem, but most people just don’t believe in themselves enough to try it. 

So, go on : think of all the positives and give it a go.  And always remember, be kind to yourself when judging your work. 

If you feel inspired to write a poem please share it either on the Family Quilt or in the Poetry Corner in our online Discussions.

Contributed by Poet -  Doreen Baidoo