What are you trying to say?

Sometimes it is possible to get caught up in our own work that we start losing what we are trying to get out in the first place. Maybe we are afraid of it not sounding good so we try to get it to look better but then we lose the meaning completely. It may be difficult to write without worrying about it not getting done or looking close to perfect but we need to first write out what we want to say as if we are talking with a friend. Just jot some things down first kind of like a pre-draft. Another idea is to start writing a poem or story the way you normally do and if you get stuck then try explaining what you want the reader to know or what you are trying to say. And then, start making it fancy if you like.

The same happens with titles. I find it extremely difficult to write titles in my poems because I'm focusing on what would look good and make the most sense BUT I'm forgetting that I need to remember why I am writing these poems- I am trying to express something meaningful and maybe I need to just get away from the abstract thinking and tell myself what I'm writing about. It helps me to understand what I am reaching for. Titles really are like the extra link of the poem to make it all come together.

It also helps to visualize the story or poem you are writing. In a story, picture yourself in it and ask yourself, what would I do if this actually happened? Then, write what you see and feel. In a poem, live through what you are writing and actually go right along with the feelings an emotions and try to see how you can relate to them. Maybe some images will come up that you can use in your poem- imagery in poems makes it come alive and a reader will be able to connect with what you are writing.

It is good to ask a friend, teacher or family member for their opinion to see what they learned from your work and what they understand from it. If they are confused, maybe it needs clarifying or a stronger focus or image. This may help you think of a title or something else to add into your piece. They can explain your work in a new way in which can give you more ideas.