I was reticent to even call what I did poetry for a long time,
A really long time.
Because I thought poetry must require some more effort than just thoughts.
But then again, I thought my thoughts weren't normal if they contained sweeping metaphors
And I could never say anything deep without sounding like I should be spouting it on a stage.
So I tried the label,
"Poetry".
I'm still not entirely sure it fits snugly.
Some of the poetry I read is far more poetry
Than my poetry.
I've messed around with rhymes and rhythms-
As a "poet" you're apparently supposed to pay attention to those- but...
I have never been one for rules.
Whatever spills out is what I call poetry,
And that makes me feel a bit course, sometimes.
All the quatrains and the forms and the hidden meanings,
I'm supposed to do that, right?
But instead I say exactly what I mean to say,
In a straightforward effort to get the reader to simply feel
What I feel
Because why would I be wasting my time writing
If a feeling didn't compel me to do so?
Is that poetry?
Is that right?
Who knows.
But
I have yet to find a better word for what I do,
So I suppose
"Poetry"
Will have to do.