Creative Writing Poetry Assignment

Poetry Editing Questions

1. What is the form/tradition of the poem (elegy, ode, sonnet)? How does it fit within the tradition? How does it push against or break with tradition (ex: subject matter, rhyme, meter, etc)? If there is an obvious break in tradition, does this add to the poem as a whole and enhance the subject matter (like Roethke’s “Elegy for Jane,” in which the free-verse adds to the sense of uncertainty)?

2. Which lines/phrases surprise and specify the subject matter/tone? Why do they work well? Which fall a bit short and why? How could these phrases/lines be revised for the betterment of the poem as a whole?

3. Is there vivid imagery presented in the poem? Are there places where the writer could SHOW vs. TELL (for example, showing fear through descriptions of mindset and physical reaction vs. saying, “I felt scared”)? Are there places in which metaphor or simile could be used to SHOW vs. TELL?

4. Are there any lines/phrases/images that are confusing, perhaps due to too many abstractions? Should the writer use more concrete details in places to support abstract ideas? (Remember, a confused reader is rarely a pleased reader).

5. Is there rhyme (exact or slant) in the poem? If so, should it be enforced more or perhaps toned down using slant rhyme? How does the rhyme enhance the subject matter or draw attention to certain words?

6. How do the line breaks function? Does each line serve a purpose as its own unit of meaning (i.e. is every line interesting)? Should there be more/less enjambment (a thought/phrase that runs onto the next line)?

7. Can you recognize layers of meaning in the poem? (1) a clear literal situation and (2) a metaphorical meaning—what the literal words suggest or imply? Though not every poem contains it, is there (3) an anagogical meaning—a spiritual/moral lesson portrayed by the poem?

8. Is the poem obviously influenced by a poem/poet studied in class? If so, how does this allusion work for the poem as a whole?