How Do You Instinctively Write
I have been told I naturally write poetry. To the point where I didn't want to pick up a pencil or pen ever again. But, I moved on and pushed through it.
Being able to handle criticism is another topic we will cover later.
I am stronger for having gone through it and it did help me learn how to recognize the difference between poetry and lyrics.
There are a few questions to help you figure out what you naturally write.
Poetry writings have tell signs that you have a poem in front of you instead of a lyric.
For the longest time I didn't understand, until I found this check list in The Art of Writing Great Lyrics by Pamela Oland.
Checklist
Read on and you will see what I mean.
Here are your "clues" or "tells".
1. Song setup doesn't follow a song structure.
2. No obvious title.
3. No refrain or hook that repeats.
4. Lyric isn't conversational: Your writing needs to be a conversation between you and your best friend.
5. Use of antiquated language – again write how you speak.
6. The story doesn't move forward. You just repeat over and over, like a broken record.
7. The story is so personal it is embarrassing to read, no worries we all have done this one, you have to learn to get naked on a page.
Tip: If you find yourself moving and twisting your words to make them rhyme look over your page and see if any of the above clues are present.
Tip: The more you use this list the sooner it becomes second nature and you recognise what you are writing, then pen it and put it away for later with no worries.
Conclusion
I did what is instinctive at first, I tried to re write my poetry because dang it, I want to write lyrics! I'll be honest with you, it doesn't really work. Poetry is poetry and lyrics are lyrics. After awhile you will be able to tell the difference. Be patient with yourself and keep writing.
I would definitely keep a poetry folder around and put all your writings in it. This way later on you will have a full book to publish if the opportunity comes around or you have some inspirational material to reread. I know artists and songwriters that have published poetry or books. It's better to hold on to it for later. You just never know.
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