How To Start Writing Poetry: A Guide

Follow these few easy steps to create a work of art

For many people, writing poetry feels intimidating. Finding the right words, expressing deep emotions, and making everything “sound good” can feel overwhelming.

For me, poetry has always come naturally.

It’s one of the most powerful forms of self-expression. Especially when what you’re feeling is too complex to explain in everyday language. Poetry gives those emotions a place to exist.

My Passion

During my sophomore year of high school, I was assigned to write a short poem in English class. I didn’t think much of it. I quickly wrote something down and turned it in without much effort.

To my surprise, my teacher praised my work and encouraged me to submit it to a poetry contest.

I ended up winning.

That moment shifted everything. It made me realize, maybe I’m actually good at this.

By my senior year, I had won a scholarship after reading one of my pieces of work on the radio, and I even got an honorable mention in the Midwest writing region through Scholastics. I also have several published pieces across various websites.

A photo of me accepting the John Scrivner Memorial Scholarship after my radio interview, Credit: WMIX

WHERE TO START

If you're looking where to start, you've come to the right place. Starting is often the hardest part. Getting into the mindset of a poet is not something that happens instantly at times. Sometimes you need to ease into it.

One of my favorite methods is using music as inspiration. Not just any song, choose one you feel. You have to listen to a song that doesn't just sound good but you resonate with it on a different level. Usually, I feel like people tell you to write with a balance of logic and feeling, but with poetry it's different.

Poetry thrives on feeling.

Let go of logic for a moment. Sit with the emotion. Let it build until you’re ready to release it onto the page.

What's next?

Once you feel inspired, start writing!

Don’t overthink it. Let your thoughts flow freely without worrying about structure or perfection.

One of the best things about poetry is that there are no strict rules. It can be free verse, haiku, structured or abstract, or even shaped into visual arts. It's all up to you. Poetry is personal. Every piece you write is uniquely yours.

Keep writing

Your first poem is just the beginning.

Try writing again. Experiment with different styles, themes, or sources of inspiration. Switch up the music. Challenge yourself creatively.

If you're feeling ready to consider sharing your work, submit your poems into contests, publish them online, or even start your own poetry blog.

There are many opportunities for writers, including platforms that offer recognition and even monetary awards. You never know where writing could take you.

Final Thoughts

Poetry isn’t about being perfect. It's about about being real.

If you have something you feel deeply, you already have what it takes to write a poem.

Now it’s your turn:

Write a poem inspired by a song you love. Focus on the feeling, not the lyrics, and let your emotions guide you.

Your voice matters. Start using it.

Thank you for reading.