Does One Read As Well as Write?

May 05

Does One Read As Well as Write?

Robert Pinsky has said that the trouble with poetry is there are too many people writing it. That generalization is likely further extrapolated by him if one pursues his speeches and writings.  Please, be patient with me. I’m going somewhere here if I can. I would add the point: maybe there are too many people writing it that don’t read anyone else’s. A case of the (me) confusing speaker and audience. Writing of any form requires one to practice craft. To read others, at first modeling excellent writing—observing what does and doesn’t work and learning from observed mistakes to avoid the pitfalls one sees others make. Then one develops one’s own voice. And other people might read (or listen) to you. As the cliche goes: turn about’s fair play.

4 thoughts on “Does One Read As Well as Write?”

  1. I disagree with Pinsky. First, everybody would benefit by writing poetry. It does not have to be punlished, but as you say,others need to rsad if. Why? Because even if another does not personally identify, they can at least find a connection and understand the poet. Second, the poet gets in touch with him/herself. Writing poetry necessitates a form of meditatiom. Self reflection and expression is healthy. A poem may not be 'good', but it may be good for the soul.

  2. Thanks, Katrina. Poetry can be an outlet. I gave a journal to a colleague today who I've encouraged to write, and she is going to journal family stories. She was beaming with enthusiasm. Always makes my day when I see that.

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