Help! I Want To Be A
Freelance Poetry Writer
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When I was first approached to pen this piece, I was so excited I could hardly sleep! Although I have enjoyed a great amount of success (and pay) as a creative writer of different genres, poetry remains my “first love”.

It is indeed the freest form of literary expression, and in my opinion, has the most impact. Good poetry touches the heart and resonates the soul. Think about it. Some of the most revered and studied writers throughout history have been poets: Edgar Allan Poe, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Gwendolyn Brooks, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Alice Walker, Langston Hughes, and Sonia Sanchez to name a few.

So you want to join this illustrious group?
The good news is that poetry is experiencing popularity like never before. It’s a featured form of entertainment virtually everywhere---from coffeehouses, to jazz clubs, to bookstores. And if you’re an unconventional thinker, an avid reader, and have a “way with words” you’ve already met the prerequisites!

The bad news is that the pay is moderate, you’ll often work graveyard shifts, and you can pretty much forget any appearances on Oprah, (unless you’re Maya Angelou).

Having said that, here’s how to hone your craft and increase your cash!

• Liberate your muse!
  Effective poetry is free of censure and “political correctness”. It’s honest, raw, and revealing. Learn to free associate and go with the flow.
  
  
• Be succinct but substantive.
  Poetry should arrest your readers, not hold them captive!
  
  
• Take a class.
  There are an array of courses being offered through community colleges and on-line resources.
  
  
• Participate in local poetry readings.
  One of the coolest things about being a poet is the lifestyle. Poetry readings (a.k.a. open mike) afford the opportunity to get immediate feedback on your work, and meet and network with some really cool, supportive people.
  
  
• Study the greats.
  What moves you in others’ works? Do you like the eclectic style of E.E. Cummings? The gutsiness of Gwendolyn Brooks? Try your hand at some of their creative techniques.
  
  
• Keep a journal.
  Some of my most popular pieces started out as journal entries where I was merely venting.
  
  
• Turn your creativity to cash.
  In addition to the various poetry markets available, poetry is a great avenue for producing greeting card verse, song lyrics, and creative gifts. I have taken several of my short pieces, printed them up on attractive paper, framed them, and sold in bookstores and gift shops. And you can too!
  
  
• Consider creating a chapbook of your best pieces.
  Another way to make money and gain exposure for your talent is to compile a book of 20 to 48 of your poems and self-publish. It gives credence and serious regard.
  
  
• Don’t quit your day job!
  The pay is just enough to keep you motivated, but not enough to keep you afloat.
  
  
• Purchase the Poets Market, published by Writers Digest.
  Here you’ll find poetry contests, organizations, markets, and insiders tips that will prove invaluable.
  
  
• Keep at it!
  Immortality awaits…