how to start writing a poem?

http://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Poem

http://www.creative-writing-now.com/how-to-write-poetry.html

To start writing a poem, you can follow these steps:

1. Find inspiration: Look for things that inspire you such as nature, relationships, emotions, or personal experiences.

2. Choose a form or structure: Decide on the poetic form you want to use. This could be a traditional form like a sonnet or haiku, or you can create your own structure.

3. Brainstorm: Jot down any words, phrases, or ideas that come to mind related to your chosen theme or inspiration. Don't worry about making them poetic yet, just capture your thoughts.

4. Free write: Start writing without worrying about rhyming or making it sound perfect. Write in a stream-of-consciousness manner, letting your ideas flow onto the paper.

5. Organize your thoughts: Find connections and patterns within your brainstorming and free writing. Rearrange your ideas into a logical order or sequence.

6. Add poetic elements: Once you have a basic structure, start incorporating poetic elements like metaphors, similes, imagery, alliteration, or rhyme.

7. Refine and revise: Read through your poem and make revisions. Look for areas where the rhythm feels off or where you can improve the choice of words. Consider seeking feedback from others to get a fresh perspective.

8. Edit and polish: Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Ensure that each line contributes to the overall impact of the poem.

9. Experiment: Don't be afraid to take risks and try different writing techniques. Poetry is a creative form, so allow yourself to explore unconventional ideas.

Remember, there are no strict rules in poetry, and everyone has their own unique style. The key is to write from your heart and let your emotions guide you.