The Distinction between Poetry and Prose

When I first started writing, I struggled with distinguishing between poetry and prose. I would pour my thoughts onto the page, add some wordplay, and then format it into verse, believing that alone transformed it into poetry. But that’s not quite how it works.

Prose vs. Poetry: The Basics

There is a fundamental difference in structure and style between poetry and prose. Prose is written in paragraphs, using everyday language to convey ideas directly. It’s straightforward and easy to understand as you read. Think of novels, essays, or even the content you’re reading right now—this is prose.

Poetry, on the other hand, is crafted in verse. It’s not just about line breaks; it involves more dramatic language, vivid descriptions, and often, a deeper layer of meaning. Readers must engage more actively to unravel the poet’s message. Poetry is an art of precision and creativity, where each word, each line break, carries weight.

The Common Misstep

I see this confusion a lot, especially on TikTok, where people rant and call it poetry. Here’s the thing: if you’re sharing a story or a lesson in plain, direct language, that’s prose. Poetry requires intentionality. It’s about choosing your words with care, playing with metaphors, and strategically breaking lines to create rhythm and evoke emotions.

Intentional Writing: A Creative Challenge

One crucial lesson I’ve learned is not to hit enter in the middle of a plain language sentence and call it poetry. The art of poetry is about moving beyond surface-level speech to create an immersive experience for the reader. It’s about making them think, feel, and see the world through your unique lens.

Blending Poetry and Prose

Interestingly, I often find myself blending poetry and prose. This hybrid approach allows me to narrate while still infusing my work with the poetic elements that add depth and resonance. It’s a balance I’m continually learning and refining.

Join Me on This Journey

I’m very much still learning when it comes to this art form, and I invite you to tag along on this journey. Let’s step away from simple, surface-level speech and challenge ourselves to create rich, intentional, and expressive writing. Together, we can explore the nuances of poetry and prose and elevate our craft.

As we delve deeper into this distinction, let’s remember that writing is a continuous learning process. Every line, every paragraph, every verse is an opportunity to grow and express ourselves more profoundly. So, let’s embrace the challenge and create something beautiful, one word at a time.

Check out my poetry collections and my other socials.