Organic poetry is a form of writing that prioritizes the writer's emotions and instincts over traditional rules of structure and rhyme. This allows for a more raw and natural expression of thoughts and experiences.
Unlike conventional poetry, which follows strict guidelines, organic poetry takes its form from the writer's subject matter. This means that the structure of the poem is shaped by the content rather than adhering to a predetermined style.
The primary rule of poetry is to be authentic and open, revealing one's innermost feelings and thoughts. Organic poetry achieves this by allowing for spontaneous and intuitive writing based on the writer's personal connection to the subject matter.
Organic poetry has no set rules for structure, resulting in a more free-flowing and unconventional style. It does not require a specific rhyme scheme and can even take the form of free verse. This type of poetry may appear illogical or irregular in structure, but this is what makes it organic and unique.
Let's delve into some examples of organic poetry that highlight its distinct form and style.
A notable poem is Robinson Jeffers' 'The Answer,' written in 1914. In this powerful piece, Jeffers explores themes of conflict, integrity, and the complexity of relationships.
The poem begins with a question, immediately capturing the reader's attention and drawing them into the writer's contemplative thoughts. The tone of the answer that follows is intimate and reflective, providing insight into the writer's mind and emotions.
The structure of the poem is one continuous stanza, without any breaks or pauses. This unconventional format enhances the organic flow of the poem, mirroring the writer's spontaneous thoughts and emotions. There is also no set rhyme scheme, further emphasizing the natural and unstructured nature of organic poetry.
Jeffers uses ellipses and full stops to indicate moments of contemplation and reflection, adding depth and meaning to the poem while maintaining its organic flow.
Walt Whitman's 'Poem of Remembrance for a Girl or a Boy' is a significant poem in his renowned collection, Leaves of Grass (1855). Born in 1819, Whitman is considered to be the father of free verse poetry. This particular poem, written before the American Civil War (1861-1865), focuses on themes of war, loss, healing, and the American values of freedom and equality.
The poem exemplifies Whitman's attempt at creating an American epic through the use of organic poetry. This form of free verse allows for a gradual progression of ideas and emotions without conforming to strict rules of structure or rhyme. This adds to the feeling of liberation for the reader, as if they are being invited into Whitman's mind to witness the formation of his thoughts and ideas.
The poem opens with a plea to remember the principles on which America was founded: the pledge of the original thirteen states to the rights, freedom, and equality of all individuals. Whitman emphasizes the importance of hospitality and states that the government's role is to serve the people, with no one person being considered more important than another.
As the poem progresses, Whitman envisions a future of free and equal individuals and reflects on the past and present struggles America has faced, including notions of social classes, anger, quarrels, and superstitions. He also highlights the importance of capable and fearless women in America, just as much as men.
Whitman's 'Poem of Remembrance for a Girl or a Boy' is a poetic reflection on war, principles, and the future of America. Through the use of organic form, the poet creates a raw and honest tone, inviting readers to contemplate their own flaws, weaknesses, and mortality. The lack of structural restrictions, including punctuation, allows for a powerful and thought-provoking piece of literature that encourages introspection.
The tone of the poem shifts from reflection on history and principles to a call for action and introspection. Whitman urges the reader to confront their own flaws, weaknesses, and mortality. He paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life during this time, including diseases, poverty, and death. This passionate plea for self-reflection is highlighted by the repetition of the word "anticipate" in verses 2, 4, and 5.
The poem's title, "Poem of Remembrance for a Girl or a Boy," hints at the central theme of the decay of American principles, particularly in relation to the fate of the youth. This decay may lead to complacency among the younger generation, causing them to forget values like equality, as evidenced by line 17: "Not any habit of an American is to have one jot less than you or me."
Denise Levertov, a British-born American poet, believed in the concept of organic form and wrote an essay titled "Some Notes on Organic Form." According to Levertov, this type of form is instinctual, allowing for an intuitive recognition of an order that goes beyond traditional forms. It is a reflection of the poet's inner thoughts and feelings, rather than being constrained by external expectations.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge, a pioneer of the Romantic Movement, distinguished between organic form and mechanic form. Mechanic form refers to the fixed structure of traditional poetry, while organic form is shaped from within and not influenced by external structures. Coleridge believed that the development of a poem should come naturally from within the poet, without concern for external expectations.
In traditional poetry, there are three main types: lyric, narrative, and dramatic. Lyric poetry expresses personal feelings, narrative poetry tells a story, and dramatic poetry is meant to be performed. However, organic poetry does not follow any set rules or structures. Instead, it is shaped by the poet's interpretation and spontaneous intuition, influenced by their feelings and thoughts about the subject matter.
Organic poetry allows for a more natural and unique expression of emotions and ideas, free from the limitations of prescribed structures. It is a reflection of the poet's inner thoughts and feelings about their work or subject matter. By embracing spontaneity and avoiding preconceived notions, organic poetry allows for a more authentic and personal connection with the audience, making it a powerful and compelling form of literature.
The distinction between traditional and organic poetry lies in their approach to structure. While traditional poetry adheres to strict guidelines and rules, organic poetry allows for a more creative and genuine form of self-expression.
Traditional poetry relies on techniques like rhyme schemes and regular rhythms to create a structured and harmonious piece. On the other hand, organic poetry draws inspiration from the author's inner voice, resulting in a unique and organic form.
Organic poetry is a genre that finds its structure from the subject matter explored. This form of poetry gives writers the freedom to express themselves authentically, without predetermined rules or guidelines.
Through organic form poetry, writers can delve into a wide range of topics and themes, allowing for a thought-provoking and personal piece of literature.
Lyric poetry, narrative poetry, and dramatic poetry are the three main types of poetry. While they may have different structures, all three can embrace organic elements to allow for creative expression.
The beauty of poetry lies in its ability to evoke emotions and connect with the reader. Thus, there is no universal rule that applies to all types of poetry. However, the one rule that can be applied is the importance of vulnerability and honesty in a poet's writing. This is what makes poetry a powerful and personal form of literature.
