How to Develop Your Poetic Voice
A poet’s voice is a combination of word choice, tone, and form, but also something undefinable—as you explore multiple works from a poet, you start to recognize their distinctive voice.
If you’re a writer, it’s important to recognize that developing your own unique poetic voice is a process. To help, consider these tips.
Read, read, read
The old adage is true—the more you read, the better you write. But reading works from a wide variety of poets will also help you hone your own voice.
Perhaps modern, classic, or a combo of genres will influence your identity as a writer. Create a TBR, then start collecting collections!
Listen to poetic music
Listening to music is a great way for poets to find inspiration, expand their word choices, and explore different narratives. Poetic music in particular, though, can allow you to further develop your poetic voice. Consider listening to indie folk artists or Taylor Swift’s beloved folklore and evermore albums, collections of songs that are in many ways analogous to poems.
As you listen to music, note what writing elements, such as complex or simple but effective lyrics, make an album feel like one cohesive piece of work. How does an artist’s metaphorical voice shine through? Which literary devices do they employ? In what ways can you apply these observations to your poetry?
Note what inspires you
Exploring specific themes is a significant part of developing your poetic voice.
Consider what inspires you. Do you feel inspired to write about nature? Love? Mental health? Perhaps a combo of all three? As a writing activity, for a week, each day take note of your inspirations. Maybe a sunrise brought you joy. Perhaps you recently remembered a memory that made you reflect on your current life. Knowing what inspires you will help you better hone your voice and identity as a poet.
Join a writer’s group or sign up for a poetry workshop
Poets often develop their voice by receiving support and feedback from other writers.
Learn more about poetry by joining a local or virtual writers group or signing up for a poetry workshop (you might even be able to find one that explores voice). Your fellow poets can help you explore emotional perspectives, poetic structures, or varying word choices you might not have considered—all of which are instrumental in shaping your voice.
Embrace change
Change is the only consistent part of life. As you and your life change, so will your writing style and inspirations. Embracing these changes will allow you to improve and hone your craft, which in turn allows you to consistently develop your voice.
Take some time to look at your old poems—how has your writing changed and what remains the same? This will help you recognize and find gratitude for your ever-changing voice.
We hope this list supports you on your poetry journey. Want even more content like this? Check out our blog on how to write a poem every day.
