Monday, 2 April 2018

How To Write Free Verse Autobiography Or Memoir

By Christopher West


When an individual considers writing a history of time here on earth, there are many ways in which to do so. One of the best, as shown by Walt Whitman is through a Free Verse Autobiography. For example, Whitman worked on "Songs of Myself" and reworked the information up until it was included in the well known publication "Leaves of Grass."

While there are a number of poets posting haikus and short poems on Facebook, poets like Sylvia Plath, Anne Sexton and John Lowell often wrote from a rather dark and dreary perspective. Whereas, the Beat poets such as Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac often wrote in a more mystical style about drugs, life, love, sex, rejection and life on the road.

Walt Whitman passed away in 1892, but not before leaving quite a legacy. In fact, the writer continued to edit "Songs of Myself, " well into the mid-1800s. After which, the final version was completed in 1881. Later, the name of the book was changed to "Poem of Walt Whitman, An American, " and became more of a memoir than a poetry book.

Whitman helped create the idea of self-publishing as the writer was the first to experience self-realization and evolution by paying for the design and typesetting of the book. As with other poets, the opening portrait shows a casual Walt with an open collar and wearing a hat that is cocked to one side. The portrait does a good job of showing the casually defiant poet which continues to dominate the market when it comes to American memoirs.

Generally, those working in free verse will want to share the piece at a poetry festival or reading. Whereas, those whom put more theatrics into a piece may want to enter a local slam as there are often cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place poems.

One of the best ways to experience different styles of readers and writings is to visit a local reading. Whether attending a book or poetry reading, the experience can often be an insightful one. For, not only will one most likely to get to meet and talk with the poets and writers, there is also a lot that can be learned in doing so.

By listening to other poets, or taking a workshop, there is a great deal writers can learn about various writing styles. In most cases, the current issue of Writer's Market can provide the type of publication which is most likely to accept various styles when it comes to poetry and prose. While some publishers require a cover letter and query, others provide submission forms on an associated website.

While free verse can be delightful in autobiographies and story telling, slams are far more competitive and theatrical. As such, for poets whom merely want to share rhyme or free verse with others, attending an open-mic or becoming a featured reader at local venue is often a good idea. Whereas, those looking to compete, perform and potentially win a prize may want to check out a local poetry slam.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment