Insights from Community of Practice & Love for Andrea Gibson
By Jenny Hegland, Executive Director
Twice a month, our Listener Poet community (now 80+ and growing) gathers for our regular Community of Practice. This space allows us to stay connected, continue learning, and hold space for one another as we navigate both our poetic practices and our lives.
Last month, the focus of our sessions was on poetic voice – that one-of-a-kind artistic expression that allows us to communicate not only our own truths but also the truths and stories of others. The conversations and insights were so rich that we wanted to share some of the key takeaways with our broader community. We hope you find these reflections inspiring as we all continue to explore the transformative power of poetry.
What is Poetic Voice?
Poetic voice is more than just the sound or style in which someone writes. It is the essence of how you express yourself through words, reflecting unique perspectives, experiences, and emotions. As Listener Poets, poetic voice is not just a personal expression but also a vessel for others’ stories and emotions. It’s the space where empathy, insight, and creativity come together to reflect the world around us and create deep, meaningful connections. For Listener Poets, honing this voice allows us to engage with others in a way that is both authentic and compassionate.
When we invited our community of Listener Poets to reflect on poetic voices that move them, they had a lot to say. Here’s our top 10 list of the most essential elements of poetic voice, drawn from the wisdom and insights of Listener Poets as they described the voices that have most moved them and impacted their own poetic voice.
Our Top 10 Essential Elements of Poetic Voice:
Authenticity
A voice that is true to itself, free from pretense, reflecting genuine emotions and thoughts.Lyricism and Rhythm
The musicality of a poet’s language, including rhythm, alliteration, and the flow of words that create a seamless, melodic experience.Clarity and Precision
A voice that communicates a story or emotion clearly, without confusion, and brings enhanced understanding to the reader or listener.Vulnerability and Courage
Poetic voices that are unafraid to go deeper into personal or difficult topics, embracing vulnerability and courage in their expression.Imagery and Sensory Detail
Rich, vivid imagery that evokes sensory experiences, making the poem tangible and alive, engaging the reader’s imagination.Wordplay and Innovation
A playful approach to language – turning clichés on their head, experimenting with new expressions, and finding fresh ways to convey meaning.Connection to History and Ancestry
A voice that draws on personal or collective history, grounding the poem in a larger narrative and adding layers of depth.Authentic Relatability
A voice that resonates deeply with others, speaking in a relatable tone that connects the poet’s personal experience with universal themes.Limitlessness and Boundlessness
A sense of freedom and expansiveness in the voice, where there are no restrictions, and the poet can explore limitless possibilities in their work.Connection to Nature and the World Around Us
A voice that is attuned to non-human voices – whether it’s nature, the environment, or the broader world, integrating those perspectives into the poet’s work.
Curious Who Inspires Us?
While this isn’t an exhaustive list by any means, here are some of the incredible people who inspire our Listener Poet community: Andrea Gibson*, Ilya Kaminsky, Kaveh Akbar, Mary Oliver, Anis Mojgani, CA Conrad, Sarah Kay, Richard Blanco, Amanda Gorman, Marie Howe, Karisma Price, Patti Smith, Dorian Lux, Robert Bly, Philip Larkin, Nikki Giovanni, Melissa Etheridge, Miley Cyrus, and Randy Travis. These poets, musicians, and artists have profoundly influenced the voices within our community, shaping the ways we connect with our own poetic expressions.
*As I write this article, it has been nine days since Andrea Gibson passed away. For those who may not be familiar with their work, we highly recommend exploring it. Andrea was someone whose poetry and deep commitment to loving others have left an indelible mark on so many lives. Their voice – raw, vulnerable, and fiercely connected to the sacred – continues to inspire us, and we know it will resonate with countless others for years to come. May their poetic legacy live on, as it has profoundly touched so many of us in this community and we are deeply grateful.
Want to Explore Your Own Poetic Voice?
Here are some of the prompts that guided our explorations in case you’d like to dive in as well:
What does your poetic voice sound like, look like, or feel like?
Consider describing your voice as a shape, sound, or movement. What is its essence? How does it move you and others?When do you feel most like a poet?
Reflect on the moments when you truly connect with your creativity. Is it in quiet observation, spontaneous eloquence, or when you are listening deeply to others?How does your poetic voice shift when writing for someone else?
Think about the ways your voice adapts when you write about someone else’s story or experience. How do you balance authenticity with the responsibility of representation?What role does play and experimentation have in keeping your voice alive?
Explore the creative risks you’ve taken in your writing. How can playfulness or new forms help refresh your voice?What is the role of community in your poetic journey?
How do the voices and stories of others impact your own writing? Reflect on the importance of sharing work and learning in a collective space.
Invitation to Learn More About Our Listener Poet Community & Apply for Our Upcoming Cohort This Fall
At The Good Listening Project, we are always looking for ways to nurture the poetic voices of those who are passionate about creating meaningful, compassionate connections through poetry.
If you’re interested in developing your poetic voice and engaging with a community of like-hearted individuals, we invite you to learn more about our Certified Listener Poet program. Applications for our upcoming Fall cohort are now open, and we would love to have you join us in this creative and transformative journey.