Found Poem
Definition: A found poem is a type of poetry that is created by taking words, phrases, or passages from existing texts and rearranging them to form a new poem. It is a way of re-purposing existing language to create new meaning and context.
How-to: Find a source text that speaks to you, whether it's a newspaper article, a novel, or a scientific report. Read through the text and mark any words, phrases, or passages that catch your attention. Begin to experiment with arranging these found words and phrases in a way that creates a new narrative or meaning. As you arrange the words, pay attention to the rhythm and sound of the language, and use line breaks, white space, and punctuation to create a sense of musicality and movement in the poem. A found poem is a collaboration between the original author and yourself. Permit the words to direct you and give them room to breathe in your rearrangement. Also, be mindful of the context of the original text and how it might add meaning or layers to your poem.
