Determining the Quality of Your Poetry

Is your poetry truly reflective of your inner self, or are you merely repeating what has been said a countless number of times before? In the world of poetry, the quality of your work is primarily determined by the authenticity of your voice, emotional depth, and the honesty with which you pour your unique perspective into your creations. Here, we explore the key aspects you need to consider when evaluating the quality of your poetry.

Originality and Personal Authenticity

One of the fundamental tests for the quality of your poetry is to ask yourself if it is genuinely authentic and original. Write another five hundred poems, and then step back and reflect on your original piece. If it still stands out, it is likely due to its personal authenticity. Poems that come from the depths of your own experience and viewpoint resonate on a deep, emotional level. It is the unique perspective and the use of your own words that truly make a poem stand out. Are the words and feelings you express candid and from the heart? If so, you are on the right track.

Memorable Speech and Emotional Impact

Bearing in mind that the definition of poetry is memorable speech, there is a straightforward assessment you can perform. Tease out responses from those who have read your verse. Ask them how much of it they can recall verbatim. Compare their recollections to those of a modern classic. A truly memorable poem sticks in the mind with lasting impact.

Honesty and Descriptiveness

One powerful piece of advice to consider is to embrace unpredictability and avoid predictability. Poetry that is predictable often sinks into the sea of unremarkable verse. However, poetry that is descriptively unique can stand out among the crowd. If your poem is filled with vivid, expressive language that paints a picture in the reader’s mind, it is likely to be more memorable and impactful.

Truth and Vulnerability

The truth and vulnerability you choose to infuse into your poetry are what truly define its quality. It is not the grammatical perfection or formal excellence that makes a poem great, but rather the sincerity and raw emotion. Poetry that is honest and true to the poet’s experience is often the most moving. Consider a poem that touched you because it was so raw and unfiltered, despite any grammatical errors. The desire to express one’s authentic self through poetry is what elevates it beyond the mundane.

Conclusion

In the end, the quality of your poetry lies in the depth of your personal authenticity and the honesty with which you express your truth. Don’t be swayed by the opinions of others; focus instead on the integrity of your own voice. Be unique, unpredictable, and descriptive. With time and practice, your poetry will improve, but the core of its quality lies in the honesty and depth of your personal perspective.