By: Danny W. Pettry II, M Ed., M.S.., LPC, NC
Welcome to today’s recreational therapy session where we’ll explore the art of poetry through the lens of the renowned poet Robert Frost. Poetry allows us to express our emotions, thoughts, and creativity, providing both mental and emotional benefits. Let’s dive into the structure and process of crafting poems in Frost’s unique style!
Benefits of Writing Poetry:
– Enhances emotional expression
– Improves mental health and reduces stress
– Encourages creativity and imagination
– Boosts cognitive function and literacy skills
– Fosters a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction
– Builds social connections when shared in groups
Understanding Syllables:
When crafting a poem, paying attention to syllables is crucial. A syllable is a single, unbroken sound of a spoken (or written) word. For our poem, we will focus on a specific syllable pattern for each line.
Syllable Pattern:
In Robert Frost’s style, we will utilize an AABA BBCB CCDC DDDD* rhyme scheme. This means:
– The first and second lines of each stanza will rhyme with the third line
– The fourth line will introduce a new rhyme
Example of a Poem in Public Domain:
To inspire you, here’s a classic example of Frost’s work, “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”:
> Whose woods these are I think I know. (A)
> His house is in the village though; (A)
> He will not see me stopping here (B)
> To watch his woods fill up with snow. (A)
>
> My little horse must think it queer (B)
> To stop without a farmhouse near (B)
> Between the woods and frozen lake (C)
> The darkest evening of the year. (B)
>
> He gives his harness bells a shake (C)
> To ask if there is some mistake. (C)
> The only other sound’s the sweep (D)
> Of easy wind and downy flake. (C)
>
> The woods are lovely, dark and deep, (D)
> But I have promises to keep, (D)
> And miles to go before I sleep, (D)
> And miles to go before I sleep. (D)
How to Write Your Own Poem:
1. Choose a Theme or Subject: Think about what you want to express. This could be nature, emotions, memories, or any personal experience.
2. Outline Your Syllable Count: Decide how many syllables each line will have. For simplicity, you can aim for 8-10 syllables per line.
3. Follow the Rhyme Scheme: Use the AABA BBCB ccdc dddd pattern as your guide.
4. Draft Your Lines: Start writing your lines, focusing on imagery and emotions. Don’t hesitate to revise!
5. Read Aloud: Once you’ve drafted your poem, reading it aloud can help you hear the rhythm and flow, allowing you to make further adjustments. Allow participants to pass if they’d rather keep theirs private
Example Starter Lines:
– “In the quiet woods, the silence sighs,” (A)
– “Ghostly whispers dance beneath the skies,” (A)
– “A gentle breeze waits for the night,” (B)
– “As fireflies blink, their timeless lies.” (A)
Now it’s your turn! Grab a pen and paper, let your thoughts flow, and create a beautiful poem inspired by the nature around you or your inner feelings. Enjoy the process and remember—there are no rules in poetry, just the freedom to express!
Danny’s poem,
“Stopping by the rec therapy room to see all the laughter.”
In the quiet room, the laughter flows,
Each stroke of paint, a story grows,
With every game, the spirit glows,
In paths of healing, joy bestows.
Through rhythmic steps, we find our way,
A dance of movement, night and day,
In every heart, the hopes we lay,
Together discovering what to say.
A gentle touch, a guiding hand,
In nature’s grace, we make our stand,
With every breath, we understand,
The power of being where we’ve planned.
So let us play, and let us sing,
In each small moment, the joy we bring,
In rec therapy, our spirits take wing,
Finding our voice in everything.
I admit, I’m not poet, but this was fun.