I want to read Annie’s poetry. Where should I start?
If you want to read a single poetry collection, Calendars is a good entry point. If you want a more complete overview, try Spells: New and Selected Poems.
Is there anything special I should know before I start?
Because meter and rhythm are important in Annie’s work, she suggests you approach her books of poetry as “read-aloud books,” especially if you’re accustomed to reading mostly free verse. This means you’re invited to read the poems aloud to experience their meter more physically.
What is #SpeakItThrice?
Annie’s ideal way to approach a poem is to read it aloud three times. She would love you to do that with her poems. #Speakitthrice!
What if I don’t know anything about meter at all? Can I still appreciate the poems?
Absolutely yes! You can read Annie’s poems aloud or silently, and the meter’s magic happens no matter your experience. Just as you don’t need to read music to enjoy Mozart, you don’t need to know meter to enjoy Annie’s poems.
Ok, but will reading Annie’s criticism and poetics help me get more out of her poetry?
Of course! The best books to read for this purpose are The Body of Poetry; Measure for Measure; or, for poets, A Poet’s Craft.
Where is the best place to purchase Annie’s books?
The best place is Annie Finch’s Poetry Witch Bookshop, which supports Annie, Annie’s Poetry Witch Community, and indie bookshops.
What is the best way to go deeper into Annie’s poetry process?
On Annie’s Patreon, she posts drafts of poems, videos of composition, entries from her writers journal, and more.
What is the best way to learn more about meter and magic?
Annie’s Poetry Witchery Substack publishes essays and posts on these topics.
What is the best way to get Annie’s feedback on my poetry?
There are three options: 1. study with her privately; 2.check out her upcoming live workshops, classes, and retreats around the web and the world and subscribe to stay in the loop; 3. and/or join Annie in her poetry learning community, Meter Magic Spiral.
Because meter and rhythm are important in Annie’s work, she suggests you approach her books of poetry as “read-aloud books,” especially if you’re accustomed to reading mostly free verse. This means you’re invited to read the poems aloud to experience their meter more physically.