Literature
The Dichotomy of Poetry: Why Writers Rarely Read
Why Do Many Writers Rarely Read Poetry?
Writing poetry is a diverse and multifaceted endeavor, driven by various motivations such as therapy, loneliness, attention, solipsism, and ambition.
However, many individuals who express themselves through poetry show little interest in reading it. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon and investigates the relationship between the act of writing and reading poetry.
Reasons for Writing Poetry
People write poetry for different reasons. It can be a form of therapeutic release, a solace from loneliness, or a means to convey their thoughts and emotions to the world. Others may be driven by a desire for personal attention or ambition to influence or connect with others through their art. Moreover, intellectual curiosity and a love for language can also motivate someone to write poetry.
Writing poetry is a mode of speech, allowing one to communicate their ideas and emotions. The primary reason to read it is to understand how it works effectively when spoken aloud. Unfortunately, the signal-to-noise ratio is often too high, and modern distractions like music, movies, and television can be more appealing to many people.
Personal Experience as a Poet and Reader
As someone who writes poetry, my primary motivation is to express my thoughts and feelings. I am not necessarily seeking validation or readership. I enjoy the process of creating words that flow and rhyme, mirroring the melody in my head. The way my poems are supposed to sound is clear to me, which is why I often dislike reading others' poetry. The flow and beats are often lost, especially when the writer is not the one who performs the poem.
I find reading poetry to be akin to listening to a subpar cover version of a song I am familiar with. Unlike other forms of literature, poetry is more personal and sounds best when it comes directly from the poet themselves.
The Importance of Both Reading and Writing Poetry
From my perspective, the ability to read and write poetry is a gift. It is a unique talent that not everyone possesses, and it is a way to understand oneself and the world through a different lens. When you are a poet, it is crucial to engage with the work of others, as it helps to recognize the parameters, rules, and manners of poetry.
Writing poetry is a state of mind—an imaginative process that can encompass a wide range of topics, from nature and religion to life, society, custom norms, and human beings. Poetry is a field of emotions, thoughts, and perceptions that can be interpreted in various ways by different individuals. Reading poetry can greatly enhance one's writing skills and visualization abilities.
The Benefits of Being a Poet and Reader
Being both a reader and a writer of poetry can offer numerous benefits. It expands one's understanding of language and emotions, and it helps to develop a more nuanced appreciation of the craft. Moreover, reading poetry allows one to empathize with and connect to the emotions and experiences of others.
Lastly, poetry is a continuous journey that encourages the reader and writer to always be learning. The more one reads and writes poetry, the more they can deepen their understanding of the world and their own thoughts and feelings. This never-ending learning process is a defining aspect of a poet's life.
As Abeera beautifully put it, As long as you live, keep learning how to live. Through poetry, we learn to express our thoughts, feelings, and imagination, and in doing so, we enrich both our own lives and those of others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the dichotomy between poetry writers and readers can be complex. While many writers find it difficult to read poetry, it is essential for both the art and the individual's growth. Embracing poetry, whether as a writer or a reader, can lead to a more profound understanding of oneself and the world around us.
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