Introducing Pen, Paper, and Heart Vol. 01: Crafting Beauty with Found Poetry
A Serial Publication
Hey Poets!
I know it’s been awhile since you’ve last heard from me, but I’m back, and things will be better than ever. But here’s a quick timeline and explanation.
January
Fired.
My fault.
Don’t feel (too) bad.
February
Apply to 300 job postings.
Rejected for every single one.
Slip into major depression.
Start to spiral out after a long and overwhelming silent 2 year mental battle.
Unsure I would make it (or wanted to) to see March 1st.
March
Decide to give it one more day.
Shake it off, and turn to writing daily on LinkedIn as a healing mechanism.
The positive response reminds me I have more to say and share with the world to support others who may find themselves in a similar place.
Applied to 150 more job postings.
Denied from all again, but hopeful.
Also realize that I can certainly make a living from my writing if I can cover my base expenses.
Now I have a plan, and ask around, no one can stop me once I have a plan of attack.
April
It’s National Poetry Month.
I’m inspired to finally finish and publish “Pen, Paper, and Heart” my first book that I’ve been working toward since last August;
acting as the beginner’s guide to the art and craft of Found Poetry.
After I compiled all my notes, rough chapter drafts, and poetry, with the help of Ai I’m able to fast track the entire process and finished the entire book in 7 days.
Applied to 5 more jobs. Hired by one on the spot. Katz’s Delicatessen.
Customer Experience Concierge - Part greeter, customer service specialist, and security guard.
“Pen, Paper, and Heart” release is placed on hold.
Fall off the grid until I’m back on solid ground.
May
Climb my way out of my depression by sheer will, determination, and just showing up.
June
With some wind beneath my sails, decide to turn “Pen, Paper, and Heart” into a serial publication here on Substack until I can afford (mentally and financially) to publish the completed work along with any marketing.
And here we are.
Pen, Paper and Heart Vol. 01: Crafting Beauty with Found Poetry
Introduction
This guide invites you into the transformative world of found poetry, where the overlooked words of our daily lives become the building blocks of breathtaking literary creations.
Whether you're a poet at heart or curious about the landscape of literature, found poetry offers a fresh lens through which to view the world, turning the mundane into the profound.
Through this journey, we'll explore how to capture the essence of emotion and experience, crafting beauty from the fabric of everyday language.
Found poetry is a form of literary alchemy, turning the ordinary text we encounter — from newspapers and street signs to letters and literary works — into extraordinary poetry.
By rearranging words and phrases, changing [ ] spacing, or editing text, we infuse new meaning into existing narratives.
It's a process of discovery and innovation, where the poet acts as both artist and archaeologist, unearthing hidden gems within familiar contexts.
The origins of found poetry trace back to the early 20th century, deeply rooted in the Dadaist movement's revolutionary spirit.
The Dadaists challenged conventional art and authorship, pushing the boundaries of creativity and expression.
Found poetry continues this tradition, proving that art isn't confined to original creation but can emerge from reimagining and recontextualizing what already exists.
Drawing from a vast array of sources, found poetry blurs the lines between visual and verbal art, opening up a world where language transcends its literal meaning.
This form encourages us to see the poetic potential in all forms of text, transforming them into something new and deeply personal.
This form of poetry isn't just about the poems we create but the process of creation itself.
It's a celebration of the beauty that can be forged from the chaos of everyday life, a reminder that:
Profound meaning often lies hidden in the most unexpected places.
In this weekly guide, you'll learn not only the techniques of found poetry but how to adopt a poetic perspective, seeing beauty in the ordinary and crafting it into something extraordinary.
With just a pen, paper, and an open heart, you'll discover how to weave the world's words into your own unique tapestry of poetry.
Let's begin our journey into "Pen, Paper, and Heart."
Here, every word you encounter has the potential to be part of something beautiful.
Welcome aboard.
Art isn’t confined to original creation but can emerge from reimagining and recontextualizing what already exists.
A Few Objectives
Let’s dive into found poetry with a few clear goals.
This journey isn’t just about creating poems; it’s a way to change how we view, think, and feel with the power of poetry at our side.
Boost Creativity: The essence of found poetry is creativity. It pushes you to see the usual words in unusual ways, turning existing texts into something new and exciting. It’s about discovering the unseen in the familiar. Together, we’ll aim to light up your creative spirit, making writing an adventure of endless possibilities.
Sharpen Observational Skills: Making found poetry sharpens your ability to notice the world’s details. It trains you to find poetry in everyday life, from grand stories to the simplest sign. This skill enriches your poetry and deepens your connection to the world.
Deepen Love for Words: Found poetry celebrates the power of words. It shows us how rearranging text can unveil new emotions and ideas. This journey will grow your appreciation for language, showing you how every word can touch hearts and change minds.
As we explore found poetry, these goals will guide us, helping you see the world anew.
With every discovery and poem you create, your creativity will soar, your observational skills will sharpen, and your passion for words will deepen.
Welcome to the vibrant world of found poetry, where the wonder of language awaits.
Stay Poetic!