Definition of prose poetry by Wikipedia: poetry written in prose instead of using verse but preserving poetic qualities such as heightened imagery and emotional effects. Wikipedia Link on Prose
Say what?
In my definition: prose poetry is a short piece of writing that captures the essence of a moment in time, conveys the emotion and thoughts of the character (narrator), and fully engages all the senses.
When I think of prose poetry I think of two prose poems by Bruce Holland Rogers at Flash Fiction Online. Check out his essay on prose poetry here at Small Rebellions, and scroll down to the bottom to see his two prose poems, "Yellowstone Burning" and "Small Town in a Snowstorm".
There are many different examples of prose poetry. Some look like microfiction pieces. Some are lengthy to the point of being flash fiction. Some combine verse and prose in combination. Any way you read or write prose poetry it breaks the easy definition of poetry being linked with verse, which is the whole point of it's creation and it's persistence in the world of poetry.
Some poets like to break the rules.
That shouldn't be too surprising. Poets are, well, a little different, even "normal" every day poets.
Have you ever read or written prose poetry? Or poetic prose?
4 comments:
No, I haven't. But the phrase does bring to mind flash fiction.
Alex - yes, I think flash fiction fits this area best.
I love fiction that is lyrical and poetic! It's more like strolling through a winding garden rather than zooming down the highway (which a more direct, plain prose entails). :)
Carol - I love your simile!!!
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