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Introduction to Speculative Poetry

Introduction to Speculative Poetry:

Speculative poetry is an umbrella term encompassing any poem that diverges from reality. Its categorization is as infinite as the subgenres under both science fiction and fantasy. Speculative poems typically combine narrative elements with traditional poetry considerations. But some speculative poems may be lyrical explorations of fantastical concepts where story is not the focus. Instead, these poems emphasize the imaginative journey the poet creates for readers through inventive wordplay and distinctive rhythms.

Speculative poetry itself is ancient and exists as the poetry of possibilities that centers the imagined as real. The first recorded human literature was speculative verse: Gilgamesh, the Ramayana, the Iliad and Odyssey, and Beowulf are ancient exemplars. Speculative poetry includes alternate history, astropoetry, cryptids, cyberfunk, cyberpunk, dystopian, fabulism, fairytales, fantasy, folklore, futurism, horror, magic, monsters, mythology, occult, paranormal, robots, science fiction, shifters, slipstream, solarpunk, space opera, superheroes, supernatural, sword and sorcery, sword and soul, steamfunk, steampunk, time travel, post-apocalyptic, and weird. It accepts all poetic forms plus one called scifaiku. (Reproduced with permission from Poetry Grand Master Akua Lezli Hope)

Defined by its themes more than form of delivery, speculative poetry provides the freedom to explore deeply personal and imagined topics with newfound freedom that poets may not find writing strictly autobiographical work. Traditional poetry often centers the “I” of the poem as the poet and holds the expectation that the writer is not being dishonest about their experiences. Speculative poetry allows for an infinite number of characters or imagined worlds to explore any topic, thought, or emotion a poet may hold.

Speculative poetry is exceptionally adaptable in the modern world. It can tackle any social, political, or environmental issue by exploring alternate realities and envisioning the consequences of actions. It creates a unique space to express the unintelligible emotions fighting to escape from within.

The aim of poetry to revolutionize reality is a lofty one. But poets aim for nothing if not something larger than themselves. Poetry is the natural outpouring of human existence that cannot be held back. It is the utilization of language to search for meaning and understanding. Poetry need not be understood—its only stipulation is to be felt and experienced. But a badly constructed poem may leave a reader feeling only frustrated. So poets must always walk their finely written lines between language play and conveying meaning.

Speculative poetry is not only for science fiction and fantasy fans. It is for any human with a heart and a desire to declare that their dreams should be heard. If we need to explore the stars or a magic system to better understand our existence, then we invite the boundless imagination.

Examples of published Speculative Poetry: (internal note: this is part of the introduction to speculative poetry section)