I’m not a songwriter, I’m a poet, and sometimes my poetry is set to music — I regard that as just another way of presenting something.Music makes the medicine go down. It is the proverbial tablespoon full of sugar. Sometimes that’s the best way to market poetry.
People don’t buy poetry, but boy, do they ever buy music. Let that be the lesson for the day.
But selling albums is not the plan. Revealing and building the Soul is the plan. I’ll give you a little glimpse into what I can see happening with this incredible new technology that allows you to put your poetry to professional music and have it come out superbly well.
The whole secret is, don’t let the machine write your lyrics. YOU write your lyrics, and let the machine put it to music.
Then listen, and learn, and include yourself in!
The Process of Poetry Revealing the Soul
Introduction
Poetry is more than just an artistic expression; it is a powerful tool for self-discovery and soul revelation. When we engage with poetry—whether as writers or readers—we embark on a journey that peels back the layers of our internal world. This process allows us to connect with the deeper truths that define who we are, bridging the gap between the conscious mind and the soul.
What Is the Soul?
- Definition: In this course, we define the soul as the essence of your being—the seat of emotions, values, and purpose.
- Connection to Poetry: Poetry provides a language for the soul. It transforms intangible feelings and truths into words that resonate deeply.
- Exercise: Write a one-line definition of what the soul means to you. Use metaphors, imagery, or symbolic language to convey your personal understanding.
Poetry as a Mirror
- The Reflective Nature of Poetry: Poems often act as mirrors, reflecting hidden aspects of the self.
- Breaking Through Surface Layers: Writing or reading poetry allows us to bypass surface-level thoughts and access deeper emotions.
- Exercise: Choose a poem that resonates with you. Write a reflection on why it speaks to you and what it reveals about your inner state.
Writing as Revelation
- The Process of Writing:
- Start With Emotion: Identify a feeling you wish to explore (joy, sorrow, anger, etc.).
- Use Imagery: Translate that feeling into vivid images and metaphors.
- Let It Flow: Write without judgment, allowing subconscious thoughts to emerge.
- Example: A poem about grief might describe a fading star or an empty shoreline, revealing a sense of loss and yearning.
- Exercise: Write a poem in response to a significant life event. Focus on the emotions and symbols that arise naturally.
Reading as Revelation
- Active Engagement: Reading poetry with intention allows us to uncover its layers of meaning.
- Techniques for Deep Reading:
- Read Aloud: Hearing the words helps you connect with their rhythm and emotional tone.
- Annotate: Mark lines or phrases that resonate with you.
- Reflect: Ask yourself what the poem stirs within you and why.
- Exercise: Read a classic poem (e.g., Emily Dickinson’s “Hope is the thing with feathers”). Write a short response about what it reveals about your own hopes and struggles.
The Soul’s Symbols and Archetypes
- Understanding Symbolism: The soul communicates through symbols, often universal archetypes such as the journey, the shadow, or the light.
- Incorporating Symbols: Learn to recognize and use symbols in your poetry to express deeper truths.
- Exercise: Write a poem using at least three symbols that resonate with your current life journey.
Poetry as a Dialog with the Soul
- Meditative Writing: Treat poetry as a form of meditation, where each word arises naturally.
- Questions to the Soul: Begin a poem with a question (e.g., “What do I fear?” or “What do I desire?”) and let the answers unfold in the verses.
- Exercise: Write a dialogue poem between your conscious self and your soul, alternating voices between stanzas.
Sharing and Reflection
- The Power of Sharing: Sharing poetry in a safe space allows for mutual growth and deeper connections.
- Constructive Feedback: Learn to give and receive feedback that honors the soul’s expression.
- Exercise: Share one of your poems in a group setting. Reflect on how others’ interpretations add to your understanding of your soul’s message.
Conclusion
Through poetry, we find a way to access, understand, and express the essence of who we are. This course provides a structured yet personal approach to uncovering the layers of your soul. By engaging with poetry deeply and intentionally, you open yourself to profound revelations and growth.
Additional Resources
- Suggested Reading List:
- “Devotions” by Mary Oliver
- “Writing Down the Bones” by Natalie Goldberg
- “Leaves of Grass” by Walt Whitman
- Recommended Practices:
- Daily journaling
- Meditation before writing
- Attending poetry readings or workshops
So you thought poetry was just for bookish nerds, eh? Well, you’re in for some good surprises, when you sign up for the course.
What course?
You think I’m spouting poetry for my health? It’s your Soul. Reveal it or don’t.
Okay, it’s Thursday — Thor’s Day — and I’m ready to board the Bardo bus, are you?
See You At The Top!!!
gorby