Sharing Poetry: A Journey from Solitude to Community

Do you write poetry to share or just for yourself? This question has long intrigued writers and poets alike. I, for one, have found that my reasons for writing poetry align more with personal satisfaction than with the desire to share my work with the world. However, over time, I've come to realize the benefits and power of sharing my poetry with others.

Personal Satisfaction in Poetry: A Solitary Pursuit

There are countless reasons why poets might write solely for their own satisfaction. Writing allows us to express our deepest emotions, thoughts, and experiences in a way that can be both therapeutic and empowering. In my case, poetry serves as a personal journal, a way to process and reflect on my life experiences. There's a sense of fulfillment in translating my inner world into words that resonate with me deeply.

Additionally, vulnerability plays a significant role in poetry. The act of putting emotions and thoughts into words often feels exposing and can bring a sense of vulnerability. For me, the process of creating and revising a poem often involves admitting to myself and the world my innermost desires and fears. This can be both cathartic and humbling. I often find that even in my private writing, I am sharing parts of myself that I wouldn't always reveal to others.

The Power of Sharing Poetry

However, as time passed, I began to realize the value of sharing my poetry. While my primary motivation for writing has always been personal, the act of sharing my work with others can bring a new lease of life to my poetry. It allows me to connect with others who may be going through similar experiences or simply appreciate the beauty of the words.

For example, consider this poem, written almost a year ago, which reflects on a past relationship:

Relapse
I thought the I hate you poems
Were my healing songs
But they werent
I thought the days and weeks
of crying out for you
Would help wash away those
Once intoxicating feelings
That I had
But they didnt
I thought things might be different
This time
I was wrong

From Solitude to Connection

This poem is about the mistake of going back to a relationship that was not good for me. Reflecting on it now, I realize how fast life can change in a year. At the time, I was not in the best place romantically, but now I am dating someone who treats me much better. If I hadn't let go of what wasn't good for me, I wouldn't have ever gotten to this relationship.

The Poem "Relapse"

Relapse

I thought the I hate you poems

Were my healing songs

But they werent

I thought the days and weeks

of crying out for you

Would help wash away those

Once intoxicating feelings

That I had

But they didnt

I thought things might be different

This time

I was wrong

So Here we are

2yrs later

Youve texted me again

I answered again

We talked again

You said you wanted me again

“ I want you In Everyway” you said

I should have asked what every way

Instead I said Im trusting you again

I dont know why Im trusting you again

I shouldn’t have trusted you again

You won’t talk to me again

Apparently I’m fake again

Honestly I’m over it again

I pray you don’t reach out again

Pray I don’t see you ever again

I do wish you the best in every way

You should probably ask what every way

Means to me

It means I still want you to be great just not around me

It means I still wish you all the joy and happiness just don’t come running to me every couple months trying to share it

It means this was the last time

I pray it was the last time

I know it was the last time

The Benefits of Publishing Poetry

While the journey from solitude to community can be challenging, the rewards are significant. Sharing my poetry has allowed me to connect with others who have similar experiences and to discover a community of fellow poets. It has also given me the opportunity to receive feedback and constructive criticism, which can help me grow as a writer.

Conclusion

The decision to share poetry is a deeply personal one. While for some, the act of sharing is essential, for others, it remains a solitary pursuit. The key is to find a balance that brings you satisfaction and allows you to grow as a poet. If you're a writer who has been hesitant to share your work, perhaps it's time to reconsider. The journey from solitude to community can be a transformative one, filled with unexpected connections and growth.