Monday 15 April 2013

How to write a sonnet






Beginnings – I’d start there, I’d start with you -
that is the sole, central hypothesis -
it morphs to both argument and premise
and a summing beyond debate, and true
in all positions, from each point of view.
The rhythms I’d pick up from your sturdy wrists
no figures of speech required, no smart twists
of language, just fourteen plain lines would do.

For you are the poem, its start and end
the lightning fork, the naked flame, the plume
of grass, the forest’s silent canopy;
you are the sonnet’s sharp post-octave bend
words written, wreathed in papery perfume
and in some ancient birth given to me.







 

10 comments:

  1. Replies
    1. You can....as I said, just start with the right ingredients and you can't go wrong!

      Delete
  2. I should not try :D a sonnet :D
    Good one NB :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Everyone should give it a try :D Just give it a shot na! :) Good to see you here Ramya! Have a great week, and year ahead.

      Delete
    2. will surely try then :D thanks NB :D

      Delete
  3. wow, what a way to teach. surely going to try at least once.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Do pass a link when you do! thanks for stopping by.

      Delete
  4. You make it sound so easy, wish it were! But real talent never is.

    Beautiful teacher!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Yolanda! a better lesson on your blog! ;)

      Delete
  5. I can never think of sonnets without thinking of verve. #ninetieschild

    ReplyDelete