Romantic Poetry

And why I don't write much of it

Of all the poetry I have written in my 30-odd years of writing, very little of it is romantic poetry.

I think this is in part due to the romantic poetry I had to study at school. Most of it made me want to vomit into a bucket. The sentiment, to me, came across as forced and often overly sugary. They describe an idealised version of love that doesn’t reflect the reality of loving someone and being in a relationship.

Some of this aversion to writing romantic poetry also comes from the fear of making myself sick. If I am writing about love, I want it to be realistic and genuine.

Below is one of the romantic poems I’ve written. I hope it doesn’t make you ill.

If You Asked Me

If you asked me to stay another year

I’d jump for joy and say “Again again!”

No need to break out the super glue

I’d happily stay with you.

If you asked me to stay for another year

I’d let out a great big cheer

And do the happy dance

All around the room.

If you asked me to stay another year

My heart would swell with joy

Because I love you so very much

My fantastic squeaky bath toy.

Opinions and suggestions are welcome. How do you feel about romantic poetry.