Pattern: Definition 2 (Non-form)

Pattern: Definition Two (Non-form)

This paragraph doesn't follow a set pattern. And yet, the various ways the author defines poetry lead up to the final metaphor: the idea that poetry can be a passionate lover. In fact, this is a surprise ending! The first sentence, "Poetry scares me," is almost the opposite of the idea of poetry as a passionate lover. Part of what makes this an interesting, exciting paragraph is that it takes the reader in a direction that's different from the point the reader begins from.

We include this paragraph as a reminder that writing models or patterns are guides, not THE LAW. Writing is experimentation with both forms and "non-forms."

Sample Paragraph

Poetry scares me. The struggles of life are so tightly compacted into stanzas, crafted into lines, and plainly, boldly written across the page. To me poetry is a powerful haunted house mirror reflection of life that laughs at weakness, shyness, and imperfection in its writers. Poetry is truly a harsh art form; it takes no prisoners and leaves its wounded to die on the battlefield. Still, for those with the guts, heart, and soul, poetry is a passionate lover.

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The OWL is an extension of the Community College of Denver Writing Center.
For more information contact

Bret Hann, Writing Center Coordinator
303-556-4709

This project was made possible in part by a grant from the Technology Learning Grant and Revolving Loan Program, State of Colorado, Department of Higher Education. We are also grateful for the ongoing support of Colorado Community Colleges Online (CCCOnline).

303-556-2600