BROKEN HEARTS

b(r

ok
en
he
ar
t

s)pli
t

so
ul

b(r

ea
th
le
ss

lo
ve)em
br

ac
ed

sc
ar(s)bu
rst
w
i
th

p
a
i
n

:: 04.23.2023 ::

Poet’s notes:

Form and structure: This poem adopts a distinctive visual form, reminiscent of Cummings’ style, characterized by words and letters fragmented and dispersed throughout the lines. This structure enhances the theme of broken hearts by isolating and splitting individual letters and words, mirroring the shattered and disjointed state of a heart experiencing pain.

Wordplay: The poem features wordplay, including “b(r/ok/en/he/ar/t/s)” and “b(r/ea/th/le/ss/lo/ve).” When read in sequence, these words form “broken hearts” and “breathless love,” respectively. The segmentation of words across multiple lines accentuates the fractured and disjointed nature of a broken heart.

Theme: The poem tackles the theme of broken hearts through vivid imagery such as “split soul” and “scars burst with pain.” These images evoke the emotional distress and suffering accompanying heartbreak, while the poem’s structure and wordplay underscore this theme.

Imagery: The poem employs striking imagery to portray the pain of broken hearts, including “split soul” and “scars burst with pain.” These images elicit the emotional wounds caused by heartbreak, while the mention of “breathless love” alludes to the intensity of love that preceded the heartbreak.

In summary, this visual poem, inspired by E. E. Cummings’ style, effectively employs form, structure, wordplay, theme, and imagery to depict broken hearts powerfully. The poem’s fragmented structure and evocative language collaborate to express the profound pain and emotional turmoil linked to heartbreak, resulting in a poignant and compelling piece.