What makes a poem,a poem?

I realize this is an old thread, but I'll respond anyway. My ninth grade literature book defined poetry as writing with a particular content, a particular form, and a particular effect. It seems like a strange definition, but I like it. A poem has to say something. It has to have some sort of form, such as poetic devices, line breaks, stanzas, etc. And it has to effect a message or evoke an emotion.

I also like looking at poetry through these three qualifications. Do I like the content? Do I like the mechanics? Does it make me think or create an emotion in me? It's why my full answer to who my favorite poet is is Longfellow for content, cummings for form, and Plath for effect.

I believe poetry is the ultimate version of "show not tell". Form, language and sound are used to create a cohesive message that is created with purpose.

Granted, my earlier 'poems' were not made with purpose. My biggest downfall was form. I wrote in free verse unedited and, although I did use some literary techniques, I could have done better. Now I try to ask "why?" with every decision I make and remind myself of the message of the poem.

All literary technique aside, poetry is and always will be a painting of human experience described in words. Sometimes we cannot possible capture every single detail and put words to them. Which is okay. The best part about painting with words is that there is always another canvas.

As for what makes poetry what it is... I'd say it is the ultimate expression of one's self put to words. There is no real right or wrong way to write poetry. It is all about expression. Whether that expression takes the form of the saddest part of your life, the happiest part of your life, everyday encounters, etc., poetry will remain words placed on paper to tell the story of this experience you have in mind.

The first question I ask any of my pupils is this: what does poetry mean to you?

Some folks look at me with crazed expressions and eyes wide. As if they couldn't possibly begin to answer such a question. You'd swear I asked them to tell me how the universe was made. Then you occasionally get that one person who calmly explains (in great detail or simple terms) exactly what poetry means to them, and they don't even skip a beat. The point of this question isn't to get someone to unravel the mysteries of poetry's existence, but instead to get a person to understand their role as a writer. Also, to gauge how comfortable a person is with their style of writing as well.

Bendy, I struggle with this, it’s like asking what is art..? Personally I feel poetic techniques are important to making a poem a poem. (I know that a lot of people disagree) However a poem needs to sustain its message via form. Like constructing anything in order to ensure that it works. When a poet maintains the poem’s intended form and then manages to capture that essence, that mood, emotion or beauty- then it's poetry. But that’s just me.