Poetry Group Forum
This is a place where we can discuss new topics for poetry projects or challenges, talk about well known poets that we like - even Shakespeare! Hopefully by sharing our reading experiences we can expand our knowledge of poets and poetry and inspire each other. We could also use these pages to post 'How to' articles for new poets, ie How to write a particular form of poem, for example a Haiku, or e...
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Does Syntax Matter? (4)
We have all heard the old joke that that syntax is a charge levied on prostitutes.
There have been opinions expressed as to whether such things as grammar, spelling, punctuation and such like really matter when composing poetry, with spurious jibes of 'pedant' being chucked in the direction of those who see merit in decent grammar etc. etc.
Cutting to the chase I reckon there are two main types of poster to Poetry Corner, with a number of sub-types.
There are those who simply want to get off their chests whatever it is they have to say and who think grammar/syntax is a minor consideration, or not even a consideration at all. That's fine, it is their choice and I am not writing this in order to be judgemental.
There is a second group who's aim is to improve as a poet, and who strive to produce well written work. My own view is that a writer who pays attention to grammar, and who in addition also looks to improve in matters concerning rhyme, rhythm and structure will inevitably tend to produce more readable work.
I cannot emphasise too strongly that this is NOT an attack on people whose grip on spelling/grammar is tenuous - it is nothing of the sort. Quite the reverse, I can and do respond to requests advice from a number of poets on PC who write to me privately on these matters, and I am always prepared to help anyone who asks me.
That is not to say my own grammar/syntax is a model for others to follow, I know what my imperfections are and strive to improve, in particular I am grateful to stalwarts such as Robbie (Macduff) who has given me much advice over these last few months.
I would be willing to take part in a workshop if it becomes evident that there is a demand from poets seeking to improve, and to look at various poetic structures in order to produce better writing.
I will check out this thread from time-to-time to see if there are poets looking to develop as writers and poets.
Regards
Bill
When I wrote the above post, I had no idea what a load of garbage it sounded, it wasn't my intention for it to read like a lecture.
The answer to the question posed in the title is that it is up to the individual to decide whether the rules of grammar are relevant, in any event, those rules are constantly evolving and what was correct yesterday isn't necessarily correct today, and my opinions are firmly stuck in the 1950's.
These forums are a pain insofar as daft posts like mine cannot be modified or deleted.
Mea Culpa
Bill
Am I making myself clear here or what. Sometimes people think that because a well known poet can break the rules that anyone can, but this is not so. All well known poets learned the rules first the same as the best artists did. Both Picasso and Dali look like they broke the rules in their most famous paintings, but their first works were based on the tried and trusted rules of composition etc.. they even still applied these rules in their later works. My point is, that rules are there because they work and as you say - only people interested in learning need take part.