Definition of an Open Form in Poetry
Open form has been described as a freeform, unconstrained poem with no particular structure or pattern that is more closely linked to the traditional long poem ofstorytelling than the typical sonnet or sestina. This form is often used as a tool for experimentation when creating work. Unlike closed form poems, open form allows poets to express themselves freely and without limitation.
An open form poem is written with little or no compulsion or structure, freeing the poet to explore whatever emotions they wish to express. Debates have occurred on the subject amongst prominent writers and experts in the field of literature. Some believe that the structure and form of poetry restricts the writer, while others prefer the foundations of form and structure to maintain literary integrity.
Reasons for Writing in an Open Form
One of the biggest attractions to writing in an open form is the lack of rules and structure. Many writers feel that this type of poetry allows them to express their thoughts and feelings more freely than with traditional forms. This can be said to be especially beneficial for writers who may not conform to the traditional structure of a poem and prefer expressing themselves in an alternative fashion.
The freedom of open form also ensures a lack of restraint, enabling writers to explore new ways of looking at the world. A poem written in open form often has a less traditional structure in terms of line length and the association of words, allowing writers the opportunity to experiment with different ideas and emotions. This allows the poem to flow without constraint, often providing the best showcase of a poets creativity.
Health Benefits of Writing in an Open Form
Collecting your thoughts and expressing them through writing can lead to long lasting, mental and physical health benefits. Therapists often use writing and open form poetry as a way of getting their clients to explore and express emotions they may have difficulty in articulating. Since open form poetry is unconstrained by form and structure, it can be conducted without judgement and often produces a more honest and genuine. style of writing.
The benefits of expressing yourself freely, can lead to feelings of thought clarity, self-acceptance, self-reflection and introspection, as well as encouragements for experimentation and development. Open form poetry is seen as a more free way of expressing your thoughts, freeing ourselves from any internalised structure that creates a mental barrier.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Writing in an Open Form
Despite being a form of creative freedom, open form poetry does have its limitations and drawbacks. Due to the lack of structure and form, it can be difficult to write an entire piece without the risk of it becoming directionless. This can lead to difficulty with the flow of the piece and bring an overall lack of coherence. The aim of writing in an open form is to find an individual expression, rather than taking in a unified structure.
One of the biggest advantages of writing in an open form is the lack of structure, come control and conformism. This can be beneficial when many in the literary world strictly follow certain standards and forms. Open form allows you to explore what you are individually capable of with regards to expressing ideas and thoughts through poetry.
Style of Writing in an Open Form
When writing in an open form it is important to find a style of writing that works for you and expresses the emotion you wish to convey. Foundational techniques would involve paying attention to where your words are placed, your use of action verbs and a focus on being descriptive. It is vital to establish what emotions stories and feelings you want to express, in order to create an artistic style around these concepts.
Finding the right aesthetic for your writing lies at the heart of open form poetry. Whether your style is darker, sadder or happier, it is important to create a look and feel to the poem that is reflective of what you are trying to say. Your poetic style should reflect the emotions and ideas you wish to express.
How to Structure an Open Form Poem
One of the key aspects to structuring an open form is to divide it into logical parts. This should be done during the creation process, rather than as a mechanism to add structure after the poem has been written. This can be done through the use of topics or themes, with each section of the poem using a stylistic framework that reflects the idea being expressed.
Whether through the use of repetition of words, short lines, single syllable words or still longer lines, these writing techniques help to bring a sense of structure and articulate the concept the poem is based upon. By letting yourself be creative with the structure of your open form poem, you can find the aesthetic to bring your ideas to life.
Importance of Flow in Open Form Poetry
It is important to pay attention to the flow of your poem. Open forms are often unstructured so it is important to keep the poem engaged by using key language and descriptive words. This will help to provide a feeling of continuity throughout the poem, give an overall impression of coherence to the piece and help to showcase the positive aspects of the poetry.
It is also crucial that the poem has an underlying rhythm when being read aloud, as this can help to express the emotion behind the poem more effectively. A great way to achieve this is by experimenting with the length of lines and how you punctuate them. Longer lines often invoke a slower rhythm, while shorter lines will speed up the poem.
Use of Free Verse in Open Form Poetry
Free verse has been described as a form of poetry which uses elements such as meter, rhyme, and regular rhythm to create a heightened aesthetic. Rather than be bound by a traditional structure, this form of poetry allows the writer to use patterns of language to capture key emotions. This can be used to great effect in an open form poem, providing the reader with a heightened experience.
However, the use of free verse should not overshadow the main message of the poem. It should be used as a tool to highlight certain emotions and concepts, while maintaining the overall message and theme of the poem. When used correctly, it can be a powerful way to great a poeticscene.
Improving Writing Skills when Writing in an Open Form Poem
When writing in an open form it is important to practice different techniques so that your writing improves. Finding the right writing style for open form poetry takes practice and experimentation. While challenging, by practising and developing your writing skills you can create unique, emotionally charged poetry.
It is beneficial to read the work of others and become familiar with the different approaches and styles of writing that can be used in open form. This can provide insight into how other writers create poetic loops, by using certain words and specific language to create particular emotional cues. This can help to inform and inspire your own individual style of writing.
Conclusion of an Open Form in Poetry
At its very core, open form poetry is about expression and exploration. It allows writers to journey into their own inner thoughts and emotions without the constraints of form and structure. Open form poetry provides the opportunity to create something that is uniquely personal in meaning and emotion.
The use of emotive language, structure and free verse, can be used to create a powerful poem. By combining these elements and applying them to the open form style of writing, writers an create unique pieces that focus on creating an honest, emotional connection with the reader. Writing in an open form can be an extremely rewarding experience and can produce some powerful and lasting effects.
