I can’t help it, I’ve always been drawn to rhyming poems; it’s in my blood. Words and melodies just come to me. That is why I named my business Life Lyrics. I’ve always loved the rhythm of words and the way rhyme can make a thought bounce, flow, and stick in the mind. For me, rhyming isn’t a gimmick or a shortcut; it’s an art form.
Of course, some might argue that rhyming poems aren’t as deep or meaningful as free verse. But I wholeheartedly disagree. Whether a poem rhymes or not comes down to personal preference, and rhyme has a timeless appeal. It can add musicality, structure, and joy. If you’re like me and love a good rhyme, I’m here to share how to make it work beautifully in your own writing.
The Magic of Rhyme
When I write personalised rhyming poems for my clients, I start with their stories, thoughts, and ideas. That is always the foundation, without exception. Once I have that, the rhyming process unfolds line by line. Here’s how it works for me:
- Start with the Story: Every poem begins with meaning. What’s the heart of the piece? What’s the message or emotion you’re trying to capture? I’ll gather all the key details about the person or occasion I’m writing for, funny memories, heartfelt moments, quirks, or achievements. Rhyme serves the story, not the other way around.
- Write the First Line: The first line sets the tone, both in meaning and rhythm. Once I have that, it’s the ending word that guides the next step. But the choice of a rhyming word for the next line isn’t just about sound, it has to make sense within the story.
- Let rhyme Inspire the Next Idea: Sometimes, the perfect rhyme comes easily. But more often, it takes a little digging. If there’s no obvious fit, I leave it and come back later. The important thing is to stay true to the flow of ideas. The rhyme should feel natural, not forced.
- Adjust and Refine: Occasionally, the word I started with isn’t flexible enough, and I have to rethink the first line. That’s okay, it’s all part of the process. The story and emotion are what matter most. The rhyming words are simply a conduit for that meaning.
- Keep the rhythm Consistent: Rhyme works best when paired with a strong rhythm. If one line is clunky or too long, it throws off the flow. Count the syllables if needed or, better still, read the poem aloud to hear how it sounds.
- Embrace Imperfect Rhymes: Not every rhyme needs to be exact. Near rhymes can give you more flexibility without sacrificing the musicality or meaning of your poem.
Why Rhyming Poems Work for Me
Rhyming poems often have a playful, uplifting quality, but they can also be deeply moving. Think of song lyrics; many of the most emotional and memorable ones rhyme. Rhyme creates connection and resonance. It adds rhythm and balance. For me, it’s not about adhering to rules but about bringing joy and meaning to the words I write.
Give Rhyming Poems a Try
If you love rhyme, why not give it a try? Start with a simple couplet (two lines that rhyme). Think of a feeling, a person, or a moment you want to capture, and let the rhyme guide you. Don’t worry if it doesn’t come out perfectly at first, poetry is as much about the process as the result.
And if you’d like help crafting something special, a personalised poem full of rhythm and heart, I’d love to hear from you. Whether it’s for a birthday, wedding, or just because, I’ll take your ideas and turn them into something uniquely yours.