Walt Whitman And Free Verse Autobiography

By Christopher West


When an individual considers writing a history of time here on earth, there are many ways in which to do so. One of the best, as shown by Walt Whitman is through a Free Verse Autobiography. For example, Whitman worked on "Songs of Myself" and reworked the information up until it was included in the well known publication "Leaves of Grass."

Before Facebook, poets like Anne Sexton, Sylvia Plath and others authored poems which were extremely dark. Whereas, Beat poets such as Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac often discussed sexual and other taboos in various pieces. Whereas, in the time of Walt Whitman, writings were often based more on personal life experience and the unknown.

While Whitman was well known in the 1800s, these other poets were from a more recent generation. At the same time, poetry today rarely reflects the genius of any of these past poets. For, most were writing from life experiences, whether that may have been about living life, or facing death.

A great deal is owed to Walt Whitman as the writer was the first to actually pay for design and typesetting with regards to a poetry book and collection. Whereas, the author was also the first to include the ideology of self-realization and evolution into the poetry genre. In addition, it was Whitman whom first used the portrait on the back or inside cover so that others could become familiar the artist casual and often rebellious attitude.

Generally, those working in free verse will want to share the piece at a poetry festival or reading. Whereas, those whom put more theatrics into a piece may want to enter a local slam as there are often cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place poems.

When attending a open-mic or featured reading, individuals will most likely experience a number of different styles. These can range from free verse and rhyme to sonnets. As such, while rhyme is not as popular as once in the past, those whom can write in a creative and entertaining way can still pull off reading a poem that rhymes.

Whether attending a local reading, International poetry festival or poetry workshop, poets can learn a great deal about different types of poetry and writing. For those whom are more academic, colleges and universities offer a number of different classes and programs when it comes to the poetry and prose. While this is the case, it should be noted that there is a vast difference between poetry readings and poetry slams.

While free verse can be delightful in autobiographies and story telling, slams are far more competitive and theatrical. As such, for poets whom merely want to share rhyme or free verse with others, attending an open-mic or becoming a featured reader at local venue is often a good idea. Whereas, those looking to compete, perform and potentially win a prize may want to check out a local poetry slam.




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