Concrete poetry, also called a calligram or figurative poem, has a graphic aspect that is suited to the subject of the poem itself. The importance attributed to the form distinguishes this kind of poetry from other linear poetic texts, and its creation involves a series of difficulties and considerations. Here are some tips to follow when writing a concrete poem.
Steps
Step 1. Try to acquire basic notions of concrete poetry
This is a poem in which the author writes the words or letters within a particular shape or design, relevant to the subject matter. For example, the text of a love poem could take the shape of a heart, while a concrete poem about autumn could have the words scattered on a page, to give the idea of falling leaves. Two main methods can be used to create a concrete poem: that of the border and that of drawing.
Method 1 of 2: Write a Poem Using the Border Method
Step 1. Choose a topic
The border method is best suited to tangible objects that can be viewed, because you will write your composition inside the border of the shape. In a concrete poem the figure outlined by the words is as important as the words themselves; without the image, the content of the poem weakens.
- The shape can be linked directly to the theme of the poem, or you could opt for a more abstract link between the text and the image.
- Concrete objects with distinct and easily distinguishable shapes make excellent subjects for concrete poems. Geometric shapes, flowers and animals are always good.
- Beginners may benefit from choosing a subject they are familiar with, such as a symbol, which can be depicted and described.
Step 2. Write the poem
In a concrete poem there are no precise rules on the rhyme or the verse. The most important thing to remember is that you are creating a figure, and therefore the words you choose should reflect that purpose. Brainstorm all the descriptive words and phrases on the chosen topic, to be included in the composition.
Step 3. Draw the shape of your poem
Using a pencil, draw the edge of the shape where you want to insert your text. Alternatively, you can also use software to draw a simple image. Consider the length of your composition and the size of the text when drawing the shape.
Step 4. Fill the shape with text
If you write by hand, use a pencil so that you can easily adjust the size and shape of the words and the border. Try to fix the words. It may take several attempts to achieve a satisfactory result.
Step 5. Erase the edges
When you achieve the desired result, remove the border. The shape should be easily recognizable.
Method 2 of 2: Write a Poem Using the Drawing Method
Step 1. Choose a theme
The drawing method is suitable for more abstract topics, which do not have a well-defined physical form, because the poem will be written along a line. For example, a poem about flight might be represented with a line of words swooping down the page, and words climbing diagonally across the page might symbolize perseverance. In a concrete poem, the image formed by the words is as important as the words themselves; without it the meaning of the poem weakens.
Step 2. Write the poem
In a concrete poem, there are no rules to follow about rhyme and verse. The most important thing to remember is that you are creating a figure and therefore the words you choose should reflect that purpose. Brainstorm the descriptive words and phrases on the chosen topic, to be included in the composition.
Step 3. Draw a line or a simple pattern that you would like your words to follow
Use a pencil if you are drawing freehand. Long, complex poems will be easier to read with an easy outline, while simple poems are more versatile.
Step 4. Write the text along the line
Use the pencil, if you write by hand, to make any changes easily. Try to fix the words. It may take many attempts to achieve the desired result.
Step 5. Delete the line
When you have a figure you are happy with, remove the line. The figure should be easily recognizable.
