Winifred Ezenwata

A Manifesto and a Poem by Winifred Ezenwata ‘22

I Am a Poet

A Manifesto

Who is to say what makes a poet, the answer is not sure but when you know, you’ll know it. I am for poetry that is unbound (relatively). Poetry is a calling, it is a beckon of the voice within to be written. Poetry is the art of writing, don’t overthink it, just as you’ll know the one if you keep coming back so as you will know poetry, it’s worth writing about. Tides

of words will rise within you and all you can do is write until none are le, but get them out there. Poetry is tough, a struggle, with words, with a blank page. A struggle With oneself. It does not need to be published, polished or perfect, but it needs to be written.

On your hand, in a book, on the walls, but don’t break the law. Poetry needs not be specific or clear, but it must speak, so that everyone who reads it can hear,all that you have said. I am for poetry that evokes, beit curiosity, emotion or despair. The best kind of poetry is the kind that feels and lets feel.

Poetry should be limitless, unbound, a

commitment, till death do you part. It must be a

priority or it loses significance. Every experience you have is a fuel for your poetry. Pay attention, take notes, capture moments, but don’t be a creep. The essence of poetry flows within you, for how else can one shape experience and meaning into rhyme and verse?

Stay inspired. But do not rely on the power of caffeine and jazz to combat writer’s block, just listen. To the voice in your head, and write. Just as much in those moments you are out of ideas as when you have a million thoughts. Embrace the muse. Trust yourself. Whenever and wherever. You are the best poet. Your job is simply to put the words on paper, words that can be made right later. Poetry should make them long for more, so share, generosity is key. Write fearlessly. Write honestly, and write true. But you must Write