Why do I like sonnets?
Good question...
I don't know for sure why sonnets appeal to me as a reader.
Perhaps the meter makes them (as a rule) more readable to me and the limitation on size (number of lines) makes getting to the point of the poem more predictable. I liked Millay's sonnets because they were written in modern language and largely to be understood at face value... one doesn't need to know anything about her or her background to easily understand most of her poems or to identify with her message. They are, to me, beautifully self-contained. So many times I read modern poetry and a left wondering, "What the fuck was this supposed to be about?"
As an occasional writer of poetry...
- the structure demands a kind of discipline that helps me focus on getting to the message of the poem quickly.
- thinking in meter (of some sort) seems to aid my ability to construct verse.
- constructing a sonnet gives me a sense of accomplishment with a finality that is not as easily realized with the other forms of poetry I have attempted. Once the poem is done, I'm not tempted to go back and add another set of verses or take a set away. Oh no... the structure won't allow that.
Having said the above, I wouldn't prefer a mediocre or poor sonnet over a fine piece of the other forms of poetry. I hope this somewhat answers your questions. Sonnet writers jump in here, please... help get me off the hook! Share your reasons and thoughts.
Good question...
I don't know for sure why sonnets appeal to me as a reader.
Perhaps the meter makes them (as a rule) more readable to me and the limitation on size (number of lines) makes getting to the point of the poem more predictable. I liked Millay's sonnets because they were written in modern language and largely to be understood at face value... one doesn't need to know anything about her or her background to easily understand most of her poems or to identify with her message. They are, to me, beautifully self-contained. So many times I read modern poetry and a left wondering, "What the fuck was this supposed to be about?"
As an occasional writer of poetry...
- the structure demands a kind of discipline that helps me focus on getting to the message of the poem quickly.
- thinking in meter (of some sort) seems to aid my ability to construct verse.
- constructing a sonnet gives me a sense of accomplishment with a finality that is not as easily realized with the other forms of poetry I have attempted. Once the poem is done, I'm not tempted to go back and add another set of verses or take a set away. Oh no... the structure won't allow that.
Having said the above, I wouldn't prefer a mediocre or poor sonnet over a fine piece of the other forms of poetry. I hope this somewhat answers your questions. Sonnet writers jump in here, please... help get me off the hook! Share your reasons and thoughts.