Writing a poem can be easier if you follow these four simple rules:
Rule 1: Use Concrete Imagery
Instead of saying, “she was dry-eyed at the funeral”, you could say, “she was as emotionless as sidewalk pavement”, or, “her eyes were dry, like a road curb”.
Rule 2: Avoid Clichés
Instead of saying, “better safe than sorry”, try, “if you don’t buy this lightning rod, your house could burn down in a lightning storm and kill your grandma”.
Rule 3: Use Similes
Instead of saying, “I’m so sad that she broke up with me”, try, “my heart is like a stone caught in a rock crusher”.
Rule 4: Change the Perspective
Instead of saying, “I watched Dad get drunk on a case of beer”, try looking at it from another person’s perspective. Try, “My kid watched me get drunk on a case of beer.”
If you follow these four rules, the literary agents will soon be knocking on your door.