I've written a thread before about how people read poetry books: cover to cover or dipping in and out.
But let's break it down: how do you read poems?
I guess the best way to explain this is to talk about my own habits. I used to read a poem once and then move on. Sure, I'd either like it or not like it and I might mark a page with a sticky tab or post it but nothing much else happened. But then it occurred to me how much I enjoy to the discussions during workshops and that I should probably apply that practice to my own readings, too. So now I've started spending time with the poems, actually trying to understand why I like (or don't like) a poem. I want to know what made me feel something specific or how the title interacts with the poem itself. So now I've started writing notes on post its as reminders to myself.
What kind of reading practices do you have?
I like coming back to poems. My first reading is almost purely to appreciate wand react to the language. To just hold the words in my mouth and taste them.
Then I reread to appreciate what the poet is really saying. I find with my favorite poems I come back again and again.
I read it first to myself. I always try to finish the poem even if I feel I don't like it.
Then I'll read it aloud, I find this helps me to read slower.
I might read it again if it particularly grabbed me.
I read as if I'm performing the piece.
By picking the piece I like,read several times,break down text,read few more times and then sit with it.
Now perform!!!!!!!!
Maybe I've been performing ALOT lately,however,I don't mind,and
may never know.
Best to be prepare for anything than prepare to fall.
Although if you do fall forward, surf with 🐧 🐧 🐧 🐧 🐧
If I find a poem I really like I will read it about three times. If I can, I'll also find a reading of it on YouTube.