Is there anything special to know before I start reading Annie’s poems
Because the rhythms, meters, and music of poetry are so central in Annie’s work, it’s a good idea to read the powms aloud, especially if you’re accustomed to reading mostly free verse. Reading aloud opens you to experience the meter more physically.
I’m not used to reading poems aloud. Any tips?
The main thing is to allow each word its own full time to resonate within you. If you can speak it aloud, great. If you need to whisper, that’s fine too. And, you can “read aloud silently” by hearing each word physically inside your mind as you go–a very different experience from skimming along quickly to get the meaning. The other important thing is to mark each line-ending with a slight pause. This allows your body to keep track of the repeating rhythms of the lines.
What is #SpeakItThrice?
To awaken your full body and heart connection with a poem, treat it like a magic spell and read it aloud three times. That’s how these poems are designed to be best appreciated. . #Speakitthrice!
What if I don’t know anything about meter at all? Can I still appreciate the poems?
Absolutely yes! Like music, or ballet, these poems hold shape and form that is designed to move you wtihout any effort on your part other than showing up fully (that’s where #speakitthrice! comes in:) When you allow the poem the space to unfold in real time (again by #speakingitthrice, then your body, heart, and spirit will respond on their own. Just as you don’t need to read music to enjoy Mozart, you don’t need to know meter to enjoy the poems.
Where can I see videos of poems in meter being performed?
On Annie’s Youtube channel, you will find videos of her performing her own poems and performances by others of great metrical poems, as well as interviews, talks. etc.
I want to read Annie’s books of poetry. Where should I begin?
For the experience of a single poetry collection, Calendars is a good entry point. If you want a more complete overview, try Spells: New and Selected Poems.
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 Poetess Priestess Substack, in the South direction, Annie posts drafts of poems, videos of composition, entries from her writers journal, and more.
What is the best way to learn more about the connection between meter and magic?
The East direction of Poetess Priestess Substack publishes essays and posts on this topic.
Where can I find advice about writing poems in meter?
Check out Annie’s “Best Books for Poets” for the books that have been most useful for others.
What is the best way to get Annie’s feedback on my own poetry?
Here are three options: 1. study with her privately; 2. enroll in the monthly Formal Feeling Workshop, 3. .check out her upcoming live workshops, classes, and retreats around the web and the world and subscribe to stay in the loop;