Find Fresh Inspiration for Your Poems with These Frequently Asked Questions

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to writing poems or a seasoned wordsmith with decades of experience; we’re here to help you hone your craft. With our list of frequently asked questions, we hope you gain the courage to start and find some inspiration for a piece you’d be proud to enter in the annual AVBOB Poetry Project contest.

FAQs for Anyone Writing Poems for the First Time

This set of common questions is for new writers taking their first steps. You’ll find simple and practical answers here to help you start and finish your poems.

• Where do I find my first idea? To begin, forget length, format, or perfect technique – rather start small with a simple idea. Choose one detail from your day and stay with it for a few lines. Perhaps something like the bus ticket in your pocket or the sunrise you saw this morning. Ask, “What does this remind me of?” and follow the answer wherever it takes you.
• How long should my first draft be? For now, a short piece is perfect. Aim for 8 to 12 lines to reach the end, introspect, and return with fresh eyes later. Finishing this first piece is important as it will help you build confidence in your writing.
• What poetry form is easiest to try? Free verse is a friendly place to begin because you can focus on rhythm before strict rules. If you want a light structure, try quatrain poems with four lines per stanza, then write two or three stanzas. Keep your lines short, choose a simple pattern (ABAB, AABB, or no rhyme at all), and end each stanza with a good line. A great example of a simple quatrain is A. A. Milne’s “Wind on the Hill”. This piece shows how imagery and neat end-rhymes can carry a lot of feeling while still keeping to a strong structure, which is seen right from the opening,

“No one can tell me,
Nobody knows,
Where the wind comes from,
Where the wind goes.”

• Which language should I use? You should write in the language that carries your voice most clearly. At the AVBOB Poetry Project, we welcome poetry in all 11 official South African languages, so your authentic voice has a platform.
• What can I read to learn quickly? Take a look at our poetry library, which is home to thousands of submissions across several themes. You’re sure to find some inspiration here.

Are you feeling brave already? Why not register for the AVBOB Poetry Project now? You can keep this guide open while you start writing your first submission.

FAQs for Seasoned Poets Seeking Momentum

Are you an experienced writer who wants to revamp a tired writing style? Why not use the AVBOB Poetry Project as your tonic to writer’s block?

• How do writing competitions benefit me? Deadlines force decisions and get you out of your normal routine and comfort zone. Just through playing with new topics and experimenting, your craft will evolve fast.
• Can experienced writers enter The AVBOB Poetry Project? The competition is for everyone, and poets with experience enjoy how it helps their work find new audiences. The project allows your art to find a new home in our library and annual print anthology.
• Any techniques that can help break my routine? Look for interesting and unique writing prompts. You can find these anywhere, from nature to your favourite movies.
• How do I let go of perfectionism? Treat poems like a playground or a dance – something creative and fun, not a verdict on your talent. When starting out, write a messy version of your poem on purpose. Read it aloud once and fix only the lines that trip your tongue or feel confusing. Keep the lines you love and tidy up the piece just enough. Stop before the process becomes frustrating and determine to come back to it later with a fresh perspective. If you’re still stuck, send it to one trusted friend and ask them where the poem lost their attention. This is where you can make a few tweaks where needed. Remember that over-editing can mean you lose the voice of your piece, and with poetry, it’s far better to have something with “soul” than technical perfection.

Ready to have some fun writing and submitting your poems? You can reach out to us with any questions or guidance you need.