"For Better and For Worse"

My way of writing a poem is similar to making a quick sketch in a notebook or on scrap paper.

I take an informal approach and do not follow a particular style or method.  I write to save ideas.

A sketch has an immediacy to it.  It could be enhanced with additional time.  But my initial push to make the sketch...or to write a poem, has no concern about making it feel finished.

Most of my poems come to mind nearly completed.  Most are completed within 15 minutes, and many take about 5 minutes.  My poems are what they are, "for better and for worse." I don't anguish over writing a poem and rarely revise one after it is a day old.  If I spent more time crafting a poem it would change the way I experience poetry.  Eventually I'd probably quit writing.

When you read my poetry, it's as if you are spending time in my family home.  My house is often in a state of mild disarray, but that doesn't stop me from spending time with others.  And once the place is picked up, the stacks of stuff do look neater, but it still isn't that polished.  In some circumstances a polish only disguises the contents.  Have you ever been in a home that is so polished you cannot sense the character of those who live there?  My home and poetry are entwined.  I don't polish poetry very much either, and those who read them don't seem to mind. 

I regularly add new as well as older poems to Zeorlinart.com.   Look for the circles on the front page of my website...One links to a featured poem, the other circle leads to a photograph.

Gregory Zeorlin

Zeorlinart.com