Expressing Love Through Poetry: A Guide for the Uninitiated

Writing poetry can be a deeply rewarding experience, especially when you want to express love for someone special. However, if poetry isn't your forte, don't let that deter you. Here's a guide to help you craft a beautiful poem for a person who holds a special place in your heart, even if you're not considered a natural poet.

First and foremost, embrace your authenticity. Aim to capture the unique qualities that make them special to you, rather than trying to emulate someone else's style. Do you love their helping nature, the way their eyes light up when they speak about certain topics, or their attitude and thought process? Focus on these minute details and the emotions they evoke in you.

Observation and Emotion

Observation is key. Observe the person you love and jot down your thoughts and feelings. Don't worry if the first few attempts don't flow as smoothly as you'd like. Emotions are the heart of poetry, and the more you reflect on the special qualities of the person, the more your words will resonate.

Show your love in multiple forms. Recognize that not everyone is a natural poet. If poetry isn't your strength, find another way to express your feelings. Perhaps you are good at drawing, singing, or something else. Let your creativity shine in a way that feels genuine to you. Love can be expressed in small and big ways, and it's the sincerity that truly matters.

Choosing the Right Style

There are several poetic styles to consider, each with its merits. If you decide to use rhyme, remember to focus on simple vowel sound endings such as 'bay,' 'bee,' 'buy,' 'beau,' or 'boo,' as well as longer words like 'history' and 'mystery.' These can help you maintain a flow in your words.

Common Metre and Beyond

For a traditional feel, you might prefer the common metre hymn syllables pattern, consisting of lines with 8, 6, 8, and 6 syllables each. This pattern is ideal for short poems and can be easily adapted for longer works by combining two lines to form an 86 or 68 syllable pattern. This can help you fit your poem to various display sizes, such as an A4 landscape or a computer or TV screen.

For those who prefer a more conversational and free-form style, there are numerous resources available to help you. Websites like Grammarly can help improve your grammar and sentence structure, while AI text generators can provide alternative versions of your poem, helping to enhance and refine your work.

Personalizing Your Poem

To make your poem authentic, consider defining what makes the person special to you. You might want to describe their physical attributes or the impact they have on your life. Refer to fictional characters like Wonder Woman or Superman if you are similar to them in any way. A quick visual description and perhaps even the location or time period can help your reader or listener better visualize the person you are writing about.

Some poets choose to include the name of the person being written about, using it in rhymes or other creative ways. However, if you are pressed for time or creativity, a gentle leap of faith can inspire you to start. If you're struggling to find the right words, listen to your heart and choose the best way to express your feelings. Poetry doesn't always have to be about grand love stories; sometimes, even the simplest words can convey profound emotions.

An Example: A Romantic Poem in a Conversation Style

As pretty as a Princess!
She has the face that’s bound to bless,
A smile that casts out fears.
The kind of girl meant to caress,
Yes, every time she nears.
A kiss upon her left cheek,
A kiss upon the right,
Because she’s special, quite unique,
Quite out of sight.

If I could be her special one,
What wonders would we share,
I simply state when words are done,
She’s the answer to my prayer.

I could describe her hair of gold,
Her figure and her form,
As if such treasures to behold,
And far beyond the norm.
Ten out of ten that’s not enough,
She’s more than that to men,
These are the thoughts of one in love,
Who thanks God constantly.
If I could be her special one,
What wonders would we share,
I simply state when words are done,
She’s the answer to my prayer.

Denis Martindale, 26th of September 2023,

This example demonstrates how a simple and heartfelt expression of love can be crafted without being overly complicated. The key is to let your true feelings guide your words.