So you want to write an abstract poem?
Well, I was lucky enough to have a poem selected and published in an art and literature journal this month. The theme was abstract. The art and literature journal was ArtAscent.
Let’s begin with understanding abstraction.
Anything abstract often exists in thought or having no particular concrete existence or reality. However, when abstraction is used in art it will not attempt to duplicate reality but rather seeks to achieve its abstract with shapes, texture, tone, atmosphere or colours.
In poetry, in my opinion, abstraction is not about meaning but rather the impact. This works best for me when the subject itself is also abstract. Yes, it’s more difficult to construct because when a poet is creating something intangible yet beautiful it’s often easier to use a subject that is real, touchable, exciting and turn it into an abstract creation. I wanted to create a poem that included both an abstract idea and utilised abstraction as the technique for writing the poem.
Get your copy here to read my poem
Let me explain how I created this poem that was selected and published in Art Ascent. The first layer of abstraction started with the conceptual background of the poem which is the subject, rhapsodic rhythm. This concept is about the intangible, untouchable rhythm that each of us may find if we listen to the vibration of self. Through meditation, relaxation or simply from quietly listening to one’s own human blood drum.
The idea of rhapsodic rhythm is abstract because it cannot be easily pictured. For example, if I said to you think of a pink rose. In your mind, you can easily conjure the mental picture of a pink rose. Now, if I say think of your rhapsodic rhythm. You won’t know how to picture it easily. What does it look like? It’s very difficult to picture this idea because it is abstract in its conception.
The second layer of abstraction is about the technique I use when selecting the style of the poem to best engage feeling, sound and word rhythm. I chose to use a free verse technique. The word choice for writing an abstract piece depends greatly on a sense of haziness. I used words that stir up feeling but can’t easily be pictured, keeping in theme with an abstract piece of work. Words like rhythm, devotion, lively, quality, irregular, uncomfortable, apart and own. These words cannot be easily pictured, now, do you see what I mean by layered abstraction?
And perhaps my favourite line: Of my own, irregular, uncomfortable jumble of life. You can’t picture this but you will connect with the feeling that life can be unbalanced or painful at times for one reason or another.
I hope that helps you to understand more about abstraction and abstract poetry.
Support the artists in this art and literature journal by reading their work here. Link up with them on their social media. Say hi and tell them what you liked about their art, story or poem.
So until next time… “Be brave and bold in your chosen field of creativity. And never be afraid to explore new techniques”
[…] My Rhapsodic Rhythm by Vacen Taylor was featured in the Abstract call of @artascent. It is an abstract poem. You can read the blog on Understanding Abstract Poetry here. […]