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Help! I Want To Be A Freelance Poetry Writer

Author: Jennifer Brown Banks

When I was first approached to pen this piece, I was so excited I could hardly sleep! Although I have enjoyed a great amount of success (and pay) as a creative writer of different genres, poetry remains my “first love”.

It is indeed the freest form of literary expression, and in my opinion, has the most impact. Good poetry touches the heart and resonates the soul. Think about it. Some of the most revered and studied writers throughout history have been poets: Edgar Allan Poe, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Gwendolyn Brooks, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Alice Walker, Langston Hughes, and Sonia Sanchez to name a few.

So you want to join this illustrious group?

The good news is that poetry is experiencing popularity like never before. It’s a featured form of entertainment virtually everywhere---from coffeehouses, to jazz clubs, to bookstores. And if you’re an unconventional thinker, an avid reader, and have a “way with words” you’ve already met the prerequisites!

The bad news is that the pay is moderate, you’ll often work graveyard shifts, and you can pretty much forget any appearances on Oprah, (unless you’re Maya Angelou).

Having said that, here’s how to hone your craft and increase your cash!

In your quest to become a published poet, be careful not to fall victim to one of the various poetry scams being perpetrated. If in doubt about a publisher or contest, do your homework and research the company. Check out companies devoted to keeping writers safe, such as Preditors and Editors, and Whispers and Warnings.



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