This is a list poem.
Christopher Fox Graham describes the list poem as follows:
The list poem is one of the simplest poetic forms. Essentially, the poet takes a simple theme and pens a list of extended metaphors, similes, narratives, punchlines, twists on cliches and turns of phrase. The art form is not simply listing things, but leading to audience to assume what’s coming next, then flipping the expectation on its head.
It’s also about the most common thing I see at Slams. Sometimes I see amazing list poems, that do indeed turn metaphor on its head. Others make me annoyed, when a single, not very interesting image or idea finds itself the unrelenting focus of a solid three minute of irritating self-satisfaction. By and large, I’m not sure how I feel about the list poem.
In preparation for the Queensland Poetry Festival, however, Doubting Thomas and I are looking at Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath. What we’re likely to see, I’m not even sure yet, but I have to say that exploring the amazing body of their respective work is going to be one hell of a ride.
It ate their future complete.
eleanor j jackson 