"A Skinny is a short poem form that consists of eleven lines. The first and eleventh lines can be any length (although shorter lines are favored). The eleventh and last line must be repeated using the same words from the first and opening line (however, they can be rearranged). The second, sixth, and tenth lines must be identical. All the lines in this form, except for the first and last lines, must be comprised of ONLY one word. The point of the Skinny, or Skinnys, is to convey a vivid image with as few words as possible. Skinny poems can be about any subject, although the form generally reflects more serious concerns facing humankind. Also, Skinnys can be linked, much like Haiku, Senryu or Tanka. (Note: As a matter of aesthetics, the plural form of the Skinny should be “Skinnys.”)"
I had some fun making these. I found it difficult, however, to create something that held a lot of meaning and context for a wide audience from such a limited pallet of words. One word per line and repeating the same word three times is harder than I thought it would be!
Here's my best effort so far:
You loved to dance
but
didn't
have
enough,
but
the
music
stopped,
but
Love, you danced!
Liz and Sara are taking a break this month. We look forward to them joining in the coming weeks. Take a look at what my poetry sisters have written in this form:
And visit the Friday Poetry roundup at Michelle Kogan's blog. Enjoy!
