Sometimes we must respond to an inner call... I found myself returning once more to the intriguing challenge presented by first line index poems. I feel much happier with this one, although it took a while to juggle and coax the various lines into place. It was a bit like herding cats at first. However, more importantly, it was definitely an engaging writing challenge. I am pleased I persisted.
Here is a link to my original post written in May 2021, fully explaining the process for composing these beguiling poems- First Line Index Poems
Island Observations–
First Line Index Poem
First Line Index Poem
The young girls are cutting the cabbages
The fishermen are patient
As they sit here happily drinking
And they, of course,
Not knowing
For years, there have been no fish in the lake.
A hush falls,
Along the promenade.
You ask for a poem,
Before I leave the island.
I say,
In Manchester, there are a thousand puddles
Where the three fields meet.
Alan j Wright
It is once again Poetry Friday, and our host this week is fellow Aussie writer, poet, Kathryn Apel. Kat shares some reviews of her latest book offering and provides a link to a recent interview she did with the Alphabet Soup Blog. Visit Kat to discover more plus, links to other poets world wide.
Well, this is a lovely, cohesive first line poem, Alan. Clever use of that water thread throughout. I can see why you are pleased!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kat. You are right in identifying the water thread. It helped deliver the poem a greater sense of cohesion.
DeleteThis is beautiful and contemplative, which very much suits my frame of mind today. Thank you for sharing this with us. I must give this poetic form a try one of these days.
ReplyDeleteI'm pleased the mood of my poem struck a chord with you, Elisabeth. I hope you get to try this poetry form for yourself -sooner, rather than later.
DeleteThis poem, in spite of being a collection of first lines, is so evocative and meaningful. It seems wonderful to put all those first lines to use again in a new way.
ReplyDeleteWell, thank you, Janice. Your response is most appreciated, Those first lines are like threads in need of pulling together, I am pleased with the result this time. It's a gamble, but certainly worthy of attention.
DeleteFascinating! But inquiring minds want to know what book's index you used?!?!
ReplyDeleteAh Mary Lee, the ever curious learner... Oh, okay. I'll tell you the title of the book I delved into for this - Strictly Private, An Anthology of Poetry Chosen by Roger McGough. Puffin, 1987.
DeleteThis is such a lovely poem...a hint of sad and sweet and sentimental. I'm like Mary Lee...what index? Please?
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Linda. So, here is the book that gave me such great word fuel with which to work - - Strictly Private, An Anthology of Poetry Chosen by Roger McGough. Puffin, 1987.
DeleteI love this poem, and what a cool way to do found poetry. Will have to try it out!
ReplyDeleteYou're spot on Marcie, it is a great way to create found poetry. It pleases me that other brave poets are keen to involve themselves in the process of knitting a little magic in this way.
DeleteSo intriguing, this form! I'm inspired to look now at those first lines more closely. But I love the feel of yours. I am left with a sense of one who is moving on, no regrets. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThank you Patricia. A most observant observation on your part as a reader regarding 'moving on, moving away.' Islands can be like that after a time.
DeleteWhat a fascinating way to form a found poem! I can see why you're pleased with this effort. It feels so cohesive and flows beautifully. Well done! I'm going to tuck this form away for another day. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Molly. This poem has a cohesion that has previously proved a little elusive, so I am quite pleased by this outcome. Glad you've tucked this idea away to possibly explore down the track. Have fun.
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