Writing poetry can be daunting for those taking their first steps, Deborah Alma pics five of the best guides to inspire would-be poets.
52 Ways of Looking at a Poem by Ruth Padel
An illuminating read for a better understanding of the qualities that make good contemporary poetry, Ruth Padel offers a sparkling introduction to what makes a poem tick.
Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg
‘Beginner’s mind, pen and paper….Keep your hand moving,” she commands. “Don’t cross out, don’t worry about spelling, punctuation, and grammar; lose control, don’t think, don’t get logical, go for the jugular.”
- John Bird: Let poetry be the answer to these troubled political times
- C+nto & Othered Poems, Joelle Taylor: Navigates private unarticulated moments
- Benjamin Zephaniah hails the rising tide of poetry in lockdown
The Art of Voice by Tony Hoagland with Kay Cosgrove
The late lamented US poet Tony Hoagland provides inspiration in short, essay-style chapters with 30 stimulating exercises that will prove invaluable for any practising writer.
The Poetry Home Repair Manual by Ted Kooser
This is a rare handbook that will provide inspiration and support for developing poets and will energise poets already practising the craft.
How To Be A Poet edited by Jo Bell and Jane Commane
How to be a Poet combines practical advice and topical mini-essays. It’s a no-nonsense manual where the spanners are replaced with ink, elbow grease and edits.
