Poem-Making: Ways to Begin Writing Poetry

by Myra Cohn Livingston

Book Overview

What makes a poem a poem? is it simply a matter of taking words and writing them out in verse form and making them rhyme? Or is it actually much more than that-the use of rules about meter, form, and rhyme to create a framework for the expression of special observations and ideas? POEM-MAKING is a handbook of the mechanics of writing poetry. In a clear, understandable tone it introduces children to the different voices of poetry; types of rhyme and other elements of sound, rhythm, and metrics; and some of the most common forms of poetry. Myra Cohn Livingston is a well known author, anthologist, poet, and teacher. She has used all her experiences in these fields to make POEM MAKING a useful, accessible, and unique guide for children to use in creating poems of their own.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0060240199
• ISBN13: 9780060240196
• Release Date: June 1991
• Publisher: Collins
• Length: 176 Pages
• Weight: 0.78 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.5" x 8.3"
• Age Range: 9 to 13 years
• Grade Range: Grades 4 to 8

Customer Reviews

A Beginner Poet's Must

I love the simple, clear explanations of poetry basics given in this book. I own and have read other books on poetry, but the simplicity of this one always makes me go back to it when I'm in the mood to rekindle the poetic sparks inside of me.

This works for a beginning adult poet...

When I purchased "Poem-Making", about four years ago, I had never written a poem and detested the idea of actually reading the stuff. The reason I bought the book was because I'm a composer of music and I wanted to beging writing lyrics to my own songs. I thought writing poetry and writing lyrics was the same thing. I was wrong!!! But before I figured it out, I was hooked. By the time I realized writing lyrics and writing poetry were two seperate skills, I had learned to appreciate poetry in ways that I had never expected. Livingston's book played a functioning role in this process. I don't much care for concrete poetry, but all of the other topics covered were just what I needed at that time in my development. I've written about 200 poems since I read her book and actually read poetry daily. Coming from a guy who always considered poetry to be "sissy stuff", I think that says a lot.

You can't live without it!

This book is a must if you are learning or teaching poetry. It shows how you can make fabulous poems that are not the least bit boring! It explains everything well and gives lots of examples. after reading this book, you could probably become a proffesional poet. And it is great for teachers to use in teaching!