‘Tis Poetry Month again—time to play with words in creative ways, whether we’re practiced poets, novices, or somewhere in between.
According to American Poet Laureate, Stanley Kunitz:
Isn’t that a perfect definition? There is delight in the act of discovery while distilling meaning into a compact whole.
This year I tried two new forms, the Ottave Rima and the Ochtastich (explanations below), and included two more familiar forms as well, the Tanka and Couplet. Although it wasn’t my goal, all four became centered around the theme of blessing:
1. Tanka—a Japanese form with 31 syllables. In English, there are 5 lines, with a 5-7-5-7-7 pattern for the syllable count. Line 3 most often provides a transition.
Blessing
God prepares blessings
For each day—bright benefits
To enjoy. But better yet?
To be God’s blessing and grant
Loving kindness to others.
2. Couplet—Includes at least two lines that typically rhyme and have the same meter. It can be a poem on its own or part of a longer poem. Each couplet most often creates a complete thought or idea.
Glad Delight
Fill your days with godly light;
Create a stream of glad delight.
Note the blessings God bestows.
Be grateful! Give praise! Set your heart aglow!
And then to others, offer grace—and smile!
Aim to make your words worthwhile.
May everyone who comes to you
Leave better, happier, and renewed.
- Ottava Rima–an Italian form with 8 lines, 11 syllables each, and an ABABABCC rhyme scheme. It often tells a story; this one happens to be true.
The Lost Ring
Dad had long worn the broad-banded, golden ring
Showcasing his grandmother’s diamond, reset.
But it disappeared from its place of resting.
A thorough search produced nothing but regret.
Days later, on favorite chair he was sitting,
Reached for his Bible; on top sat lost objet.
Breathing stopped. Our God of wonders had drawn near,
Expressing love, unmistakable and clear.
- Octastich—A stanza with eight lines, written in free verse or conforming to a specific rhyme scheme or rhythm pattern.
Look
Look to the Lord who supplies our needs;
He’s the Mighty One of absolute perfection.
Look with hope upon the God of peace;
He’s the gracious One, offering salvation.
Look within to the Father of love;
He’s the faithful One; full of affection.
Look up to the King who reigns from above;
He’s the Holy One deserving devotion.
Perhaps you’ve celebrated Poetry Month also. If so, please share a sample of your poetry in the Comment section below!
Art & photo credits: http://www.flicker.com (rubyblossom); http://www.peakpx.com; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.pixfuel.com.
From the Inside Out 
Inspirational and informative! Thanks for sharing!
And thank you for commenting, Erica!
I love the poems! I especially like ‘The Lost Ring’. So beautiful!
YOU are a true poet, Linda–I just play at it! I’m so glad you liked “The Lost Ring.” It was a challenge to write, with the syllable and rhyme restrictions!
Nancy, I have visions of you teaching this to the former PW Group. It is with fond recollection I remember learning about Haiku! Many wonderful memories from that group.
You remember better than I do, Ruth!! However, I too think often of the special bonds that grew among us as we wrote, shared, and fellowshipped together. That group was a treasure!
If you’re feeling down and in the dumps
There’s someone who can help you out of your slump
His name is Jesus Christ and he wants to be your friend
All you have to do is pray and ask him in
Just say Jesus, I made my life a mess
Please come in and make me feel blessed
I am sorry for all of my sins
Come into my life and help me win
If you said and meant the words above
He will let you know you are truly loved
Yes, He will pour out his love all over you
And help you overcome feelings of despair too
He will tell you that you’re his awesome child
So you no longer have to run so wild
God will show you that you’re not flawed
You are now part of the family of God
Jim Shanabarger
“He will pour his love all over you!” Such a glorious reality you’ve tucked into your hope-filled poem, Jim! Thank you so much for sharing!
Your poems are amazing, Nancy! Thanks, too, for introducing us to different poetry genres. I’m going to copy these down and give them a try in the weeks to come.
Blessings, my friend!
Thank you, Martha. Composing poetry strengthens our writing muscles, I think!
Thanks for sharing, my friend. These poems are great 👍🏽 enjoyed learning about the various ‘types’ of poems
Thank you, Brenda. I too enjoy learning new types of poetry. And a fresh challenge is always good for the mind!
I love learning new things! Beautiful poems, Nancy. And inspiring.
Thank you, Cheri. Praise God you found inspiration here. I still enjoy learning (and trying) new things too–helps keep us on our toes, doesn’t it!
Beautiful and inspiring poems, Nancy! Thank you for sharing.
And thank you for reading, Pam!
I am rarely poetic except when writing music. I have to write the two together or one is much weaker than the other.
however I enjoy a few good lines anytime like these.
Thank you, Gary. That’s a wonderful talent you have–to be able to write lyrics AND music!
oh my goodness, you’re one talented writer, Nancy! profound, moving, creative work.
And now it’s my turn to say, “Oh my goodness!” Your kind words make me blush, Linda. As always, I praise God for his inspiration and direction through everything I write!
Well done Nancy! My favorite was The Lost Ring. I always enjoy an unforgettable story. I’m curious which of the poems did you enjoy writing the most?
Thank you, Beth. I enjoyed the challenge of each form, but the last one, “Look,” probably offered the most satisfaction. The first six lines didn’t take too long to rough draft, but I really struggled to create two more around the pattern that began to unfold. It was quite gratifying to see the poem finally come together!
I love each of these poems, Nancy. I admire ones who write poetry. Thank you for sharing your gift with us!
Thank you, Patty. I would never call myself a poet, but I do enjoy playing with words!
Enjoyed this very much, Nancy! “May everyone who comes to you Leave better, happier, and renewed.” You are living this out, a beautiful witness of His goodness! Also, wow! on the story of your dad’s ring. Such a lovely story and also that is one of the most stunning man’s rings I have ever seen. Thank you so much for sharing!
Oh, thank you Jennifer for your kind words! As for the ring, I have to set the record straight. The ring actually belongs to my husband, handed down to him from his dad. But “my husband” was too many syllables, so I went with another of his titles: Dad!
Ahh, yes, that makes good sense! What a treat for your eyes to see that ring regularly, and all the more so now that it has that special story! (And you are most welcome) 🙂
❤️
Beautiful words, love how poetry can be so simple yet so deep.
Thank you, Alicia!
Love these ideas. copying to put on my poem a day page for inspiration and ideas. Thanks Nancy!!
So glad these ideas inspired your own creativity, Jean–you’re welcome!