“Reaching for the Stars” is written in Free Verse Poetry. This is one of the easiest types of poetry to write. Why?

                                                                                         

• It sounds more like regular speech.
• There is no set length to lines.
• There is no rhyme or meter or counting of syllables.
• It lends itself to any subject matter–serious or silly.

Tips for Writing Free Verse Poetry:

• Remember to use rich words (juicy nouns, powerful verbs, original phrases)
• Create unique similes and metaphors that make an instant connection with your readers
• Appeal to all five senses
• Orchestrate a lyrical flow to your poem with your word choices and placement
• Speed it up or slow it down with the length of your lines and of your words
• Use line breaks to punctuate your poem
• Evoke a mood with your poem
• Stop when you’re stuck. Take a walk, shoot some hoops, let your mind float free and that’s when you’ll discover just the word or the idea you needed.                                                 

One of my favorite poetry how-to books is from Scholastic publishers. It’s called HOW TO WRITE POETRY by Paul B. Janeczko. You can find this book at your independent bookstore or library. 

I hope these tips for writing Free Verse Poetry make you want to grab your pen and give it a try.