On April 6th, 2023, I held a workshop on Poetry. I presented an exercise where we write a poem about a chore and then come back to it and make it about something more significant. Like the poem about carrying something heavy and really it stands for carrying an emotional burden. It should not have … Continue reading The Benefit of a Writing Exercise
poetry
Why Poetry Matters
We need more people to tell their story and their truth. Poetry is a powerful way to do it.
Contemplating a Modern Poet
I was contemplating a work by a popular poet that has been all over social media that I think shows the importance poetry can play in expressing yourself and enhancing your mental health. I am, of course, talking about Miley Cyrus. Her new song Flowers is a response to Bruno Mars song When I was … Continue reading Contemplating a Modern Poet
Jazz Language
I often feel that my poems could be more “poetic” if I abandon what I want to say and just let the words perform jazz.
Poetry is Not Intimidating
there is no bad poetry. Just poetry that isn't finished yet. I still go back and edit poems I have had published.
The Kosh Podcast
https://www.listennotes.com/listen/thomas-cannons-podcast-playlist-g7uhwyAHIWO/podcasts/embed/?sort_type=recent_added_first I was lucky enough to been on Timber Smith's podcast "The Kosh" He talks about all the facets of living in and around Oshkosh. This was an opportunity for me to talk about my role as the Poet Laureate of Oshkosh, the writing community and The Lakefly Writers Conference. I would love for you … Continue reading The Kosh Podcast
Poetry is New Thoughts
Just keep writing until you have expressed yourself and got out somethings you only knew subconsciously. However, then reducing the free writing into a poem distills everything into something manageable.
Facebook Group
Writing helps our brain think of things in new ways. It helps us edit out the name calling before we interact with others.
Poetry Happenings in Oshkosh
Call for poems for the poetry walk in downtown Oshkosh. Submit by February 28th Oshkosh Public Library is getting ready for National Poetry Month. Students of all ages can submit poetry for display at the Oshkosh Public Library
Poetry Can Bring us Together
Whenever I have a new project, I begin by writing. That was when I made the connection to something I have been exploring for a long time. The essential skills to having a good life. One of those is writing.
Thomas Cannon Author 