introductions

[Grey Mouse]

hey everyone, well I'm new here, and like the fact that it seems to be genuinely critical and constructive rather than a support group for bad poets. Just one question though that some one helpful might answer before I make a fool of myself...

what is the etiquette regarding introductions to poems? most readings I have attended invovle a brief description of what the poem is about and help to set the scene somewhat, is this the method used here (especailly if this pre knowledge will assist in an understanding of what the poet is trying to achieve)?

The last poet I heard was Simon Armitage, and often his explanations lasted longer than his poems, though without them the entire reading would have suffered as a whole.

By the way, anyone affectionate to Keats or Shelley especially feel free to private message me, as I'm a bit of a fan...

thanks

[HowardM2]

The approach common in most workshops is simple:

If you have to explain it, it's already failed.

Just post the piece; skip the introduction. If the work can't stand on its own, no amount of prefatory verbiage will help.

[Grey Mouse]

Thanks for clearing that up Howard. Point taken.