How Do You Write The Title Of A Poem? A Comprehensive Guide
Crafting a poem is a deeply personal endeavor. It’s about capturing a feeling, a memory, a moment in time. But before the words even touch the page, before the rhythm and rhyme begin to flow, there’s a crucial element often overlooked: the title. The title of a poem isn’t just a label; it’s a doorway, a whisper of what lies within. This guide will walk you through the art of titling a poem, helping you create titles that are as compelling and evocative as the poems themselves.
The Importance of a Compelling Poem Title
Why is a title so important? Think of it like the cover of a book. It’s the first thing a reader sees, the initial impression that either draws them in or pushes them away. A good title can:
- Intrigue the reader: It can pique their curiosity and make them want to know more.
- Set the tone: It can establish the mood, the subject matter, and even the voice of the poem.
- Offer a glimpse of the poem’s essence: It can hint at the central theme or the emotional core.
- Enhance memorability: A well-crafted title is more likely to stick in the reader’s mind.
Choosing the Right Title: Strategies and Techniques
There’s no single “right” way to title a poem, but several approaches can help you find the perfect fit. Let’s explore some common techniques:
1. Summarizing the Poem’s Subject Matter
This is a straightforward approach. The title directly reflects what the poem is about. This method is useful for clarity, especially if your poem has a clear and concise subject.
- Example: If your poem is about a specific type of flower, the title could be “The Crimson Rose” or “The Sunflower’s Embrace.”
2. Using a Key Phrase or Line from the Poem
This technique uses a line or phrase from within the poem. This can add a layer of depth and mystery, inviting the reader to delve deeper into the verse.
- Example: If a line from your poem is “The wind whispers secrets through the trees,” you could use that line as the title.
3. Evoking Emotion and Atmosphere
Instead of simply stating the subject, these titles focus on the feeling or mood of the poem. This is excellent for conveying a more abstract concept.
- Example: Titles like “Lost in Reverie,” “Echoes of Silence,” or “A Winter’s Lament” fall into this category.
4. Employing Metaphor and Symbolism
If your poem uses metaphors or symbols, the title can introduce these elements. This type of title can be more abstract but also more thought-provoking.
- Example: Titles like “The Broken Mirror” (if it’s about self-reflection) or “The Raven’s Shadow” (if it conveys a sense of foreboding).
5. Using a Question or a Statement of Inquiry
These titles immediately grab the reader’s attention by posing a question or suggesting a quest for understanding.
- Example: “What Does the River Know?” or “The Unspoken Word.”
Title Length and Structure: Considerations for Impact
The length and structure of your title can significantly impact its effectiveness.
The Power of Brevity
Shorter titles are often more memorable and impactful. They’re easier to recall and can be more intriguing. However, don’t sacrifice clarity for brevity. The title should still give the reader a sense of what the poem is about.
Balancing Specificity and Ambiguity
The best titles strike a balance between specificity and ambiguity. They should be specific enough to give the reader a general idea of the poem’s subject but also ambiguous enough to spark curiosity and encourage them to read on.
Experimenting with Sentence Structure
Consider the flow and rhythm of the title. A well-crafted title can have its own poetic quality. Experiment with different sentence structures and word choices to create a title that is both informative and aesthetically pleasing.
Avoiding Common Titling Pitfalls
While there are many effective strategies for creating a compelling title, there are also some common pitfalls to avoid.
Overly Generic Titles
Titles like “Poem,” “Thoughts,” or “Reflection” are too generic and fail to capture the reader’s attention.
Giving Away Too Much
Don’t reveal the entire story or the poem’s ending in the title. The title should entice, not summarize.
Overcomplicating the Title
Avoid using overly complex language or obscure references. Keep the title accessible and easy to understand.
Choosing Cliché Titles
Avoid using titles that have been used too often. This can make your poem seem unoriginal.
Refining and Revising Your Title: The Editing Process
Finding the perfect title is often an iterative process. After you’ve written your poem, and even after you’ve edited the poem itself, it’s time to revisit the title.
Read Your Poem Aloud
This will help you assess the title’s rhythm and its connection to the poem’s overall sound.
Get Feedback from Others
Ask trusted friends, fellow writers, or readers to provide their opinions on your title.
Consider Alternative Titles
Brainstorm several options before making a final decision. This ensures you’ve explored all possibilities.
Examples of Strong Poem Titles and Their Effectiveness
Let’s look at some examples of well-crafted poem titles and analyze what makes them successful:
- “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” by T.S. Eliot: This title is intriguing, specific (referencing a character), and suggestive of a song, hinting at the poem’s musicality.
- “Ode to a Nightingale” by John Keats: This title is straightforward, yet it conveys both the subject and the classical form of the poem.
- “Do not go gentle into that good night” by Dylan Thomas: This title uses a powerful line from the poem, immediately drawing the reader in.
FAQs on Poem Titles
Here are some frequently asked questions about titling poems:
What if I don’t know what my poem is about until after I finish it?
That’s perfectly normal! Many writers find the title emerges after the poem is complete. Reflect on the central theme and the strongest imagery. The title will often reveal itself during this reflection.
Can I change the title of my poem later?
Absolutely! Titles are not set in stone. It’s common to revise the title as you refine your poem.
Is it better to use a long or short title?
There’s no hard and fast rule. Both long and short titles can be effective. The best title is the one that best captures the essence of your poem, regardless of its length.
How important is it to be original with my titles?
Originality is important, but don’t let it paralyze you. Focus on finding a title that accurately reflects your poem. If another poem has a similar title, don’t worry too much. The content will be what matters.
Should I use a subtitle?
Subtitles can be helpful for adding further context to your poem. Use them if they enhance the reader’s understanding.
Conclusion: Crafting Titles That Resonate
Titling a poem is an art form, a crucial step in the creative process that deserves careful consideration. By understanding the different techniques, avoiding common pitfalls, and refining your title through revision, you can craft titles that are not just labels, but powerful entry points into your work. Remember to consider the subject, the emotion, and the overall impact you want to achieve. The perfect title is out there, waiting to be discovered. Ultimately, a well-chosen title is a gift to your readers, a sign of respect for your craft, and a testament to the power of poetry itself.