I really do suck at poetry...

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Originally Posted by tracilicious

Honestly, I could tell that when I wrote it. My big problem is that I'm lazy. I typed it all out in one shot and just couldn't think of something better off the top of my head. I think being a truly good writer takes either hard work, or natural talent and I have very little of both. I'm still stumped as to what should be there. Any suggestions?

Well, sometimes there really isn't anything better. Then you basically decide whether this poem is worth keeping even if you can't get it perfect. Sometimes I write something and little things don't work and I realize it's actually all crap. As it is, it's worth keeping, that's for usre.

As for what I'd put there...I have to put a disclaimer here, in that I think plugging in my own idea probably won't work too well, but you asked.

When I'm stuck for a line I brainstorm it out - what can I say here, in general terms?
- I didn't like the others anyway
- I like you better than them
I'm thinking something like "their loss I do not mourn."

Last lines are always hard - don't be so rough on yourself. There are many ways you can take it:
- Lonely is always there under it all
- I like lonely better after all
- "warmth and company" aren't all they're cracked up to be
- "warmth and company" aren't reality, Lonely is.
etc etc.

That and I've tried really hard to avoid poetry because of the teenage angst thing stated above.

I've always said I only write poems when I'm depressed or conflicted. If you were prolific during your teen years, join the club! Doesn't matter if that poetry sucked - I know mine mostly did - what matters is that you have the ability somewhat, and your poetry today will be much better - guaranteed. Just the larger world view that you have today will help you tremendously. I suggest unleashing that side of yourself. Don't hold back!