Was approached rather directly by a young & emerging poet about the craft & its process, out came this admonition that covers quite a spread of the territory; it’s far from being the be-all & end-all.
 

 

1. Keep Writing, Whatever Comes

 

Just keep writing, day by day,

Let words fall out, however they may.

The ink will guide you, though unsure,

In every line, a voice grows pure.

 

2. Engage with Poems and Poets

 

In the world of verse, connect, be bold,

Talk with others, both young and old.

Their words will teach, their lives inspire,

Fuel the flame that burns your fire.

 

3. Embrace Rejection, It’s Part of the Game

 

Expect the no’s, the "not quite right,"

Rejection’s a shadow, not a blight.

We are not all the same cup of tea,

Nor is every poet meant for thee.

 

4. Grow in Your Craft

 

With every word, with every line,

Grow your skills, refine your mind.

Knowledge will deepen, wisdom will show,

As you practice, your art will grow.

 

5. Control Your Rewards

 

Don’t wait for praise, don’t seek the gold,

Satisfaction’s yours, in stories told.

The joy is found in what you create,

Not in others’ judgment, not in their rate.

 

6. Welcome Good Critique

 

When feedback’s good, embrace the chance,

To learn, to grow, to dance the dance.

But discard the noise that doesn’t speak,

The truth is found in voices meek.

 

7. Be Kind to Yourself and Others

 

In the struggle, in the fight,

Be kind to self, keep the heart light.

Give grace to others, as you’d ask,

For kindness, friend, is its own task.

 

8. Keep Your Eyes Open

 

Look within, and look outside,

In both the still and the rolling tide.

The world will speak if you just see,

The poetry in all that’s free.

 

9. Enjoy the Journey

 

The path is winding, slow at times,

But joy is found in rhythm, rhyme.

Even struggle’s scent will lead the way,

In verse, there’s beauty in the fray.

 

10. Trust in Your Process

 

So write your truth, and write it loud,

Your voice will rise above the crowd.

The world may not understand just yet,

But keep writing—you’re not done, not set.