How To Write A Poem

(Part 2 of "Understanding Poetry")

In recognition of National Poetry Month, I'm sharing three drafts of a poem to show some of the changes a poem goes through. Hopefully, seeing the inside workings will aid understanding. The poetry writing process and an explanation of what steps were taken to accomplish each draft may be found at How To Write A Poem – Students, Teachers and Poetry Lovers

Draft 1

I tried to sing in a chorus
but my voice didn't quite fit in, blend
I tried play football
but my nerves were a bit too thin

dancing, other team sports or conformists activities, get the girls attention
writing and creativity found me, tried me and I said let's see, too tired from tried, see how close these words are

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Draft 2 (bold is text from Version 1)
How I Tried

tried singing chorus
but voice didn't blend
tried playing sports
But skills didn't pitch in
tried getting girls attention
at the schools I did attend
tried disco dancing
But nerves were thin
Gave writing a try
Found a faithful friend

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Draft 3 (bold is text from Version 2)
How I Tried

tried singing chorus
voice didn't blend
tried playing sports
skills didn't pitch in
tried for girls attention
at schools I did attend
tried disco dancing
nerves shook thin
Gave writing a try
Found a faithful friend
Tried make believe
with GI joe, army men
Tried to reconcile
Why soldiers never win
Tried to ignore realities
couldn't stop my pen

Read the poem and writing process together. Check the same page for future drafts of this poem, updates to the writing process or other writing discussions and writing exercises.

Please ask if you would like clarification on any aspect of these drafts or after reading the writing process.