If you’re a regular reader of the Oakeley blog then you’ll know that Thursday 6th October was National Poetry Day. Poets, would-be poets and readers across the nation came together to celebrate one of the literary world’s oldest art forms.

And if you’ve felt inspired to turn your hand to writing some poetry then you’re in luck – because today we’re delving further into the world of poetry and finding out just how to write a poem. Here are our top tips……

• Read, read and read – how will you know how to write good poetry if you don’t read good poetry. Immerse yourself in the world of poems and rhymes and see how others do it.
• Be inspired – inspiration can come from all sorts of places, but many poets are inspired by the natural world, the social world, the community around them and their friends, family and closest relationships.
• Write about what you know – there’s no point trying to write a poem about nuclear physics if that isn’t your forte, but if cycling is your passion then why not try penning a poem about that? If you’re passionate about something it’s more likely to shine through in your writing.
• Choose a poetic form – will you opt for rhyming couplets, a sonnet, a haiku or keep it simple with free verse? Swot up on poetic forms and choose one that suits not only your writing style but also the subject.
• Pick a theme or an idea – strong poetry will have a strong theme throughout, rather than whimsically floating from one idea to the next. Choose a theme, stick to it and explore it.
• Keep a notebook handy – you never know when you might be inspired or when a killer line might strike so make sure you always have a notebook (and pen) handy so that you can jot it down.
• Go back to school – look for a writing or poetry evening class at your local college. A tutor will help focus your learning and develop your skills.
• Know your similes from your metaphors – a good grasp of literary devices is essential if you want to write good poetry. Poems are often packed with similes, personifications, metaphors and others.
• Listen to the words – remember that poetry is written for the ear. Bear in mind how words and letters sound together and use them to good effect. If your poem is loud, quick and strong, then choose words that are the same. Ditto if your poem is soft and emotional.
• Ban the cliches – try to be more original than using cliches. Expressions like “busy as a bee” are a bit old hat now.
• Ask for an audience – don’t be embarrassed to try out your poem on friends and family. But if you ask for their feedback then remember to accept their criticisms (hopefully constructive ones). And use the feedback to revise and rework your poem until you feel it is at its absolute best
• Practice, practice, practice – you may not turn into William Shakespeare overnight, but with lots of love, a little patience, a few spare notebooks and loads and loads of practice, your poetry will develop well.

So, happy writing and good luck! And if you’re looking for some inspiration from the awesome natural landscape that surrounds us here in Snowdonia then why not head out on one of our local walks – you’ll soon be inspired!