You’ve probably seen it before — four or five randomly spaced lines of text set in lowercase 12 pt. Times New Roman, plastered on a plain white or off-white background.
This is the universal template for Instagram poetry, a popular art form that has emerged over the past few years. Other than the minimalist aesthetic, Instagram poetry is known for short, simplistic free verse that is occasionally accompanied by illustrations.
But, as several think-pieces and literary critics have questioned, does it count as “real” poetry?
Yes.
It’s created with the intent of being poetry, and therefore, it is. One of poetry’s greatest strengths is its ability to create a visceral moment founded on a certain subject. With its short word count and universal themes, Instagram poetry often accomplishes this. It may not be conventional, but it’s as real as it gets.
So why are we still asking this question?
Many people believe Instagram poetry is too relatable and shallow to be legitimate. Poet Thom Young once described it as “fidget-spinner poetry” rather than the “real stuff”, such as his own writing.
But what do we write for if not to see ourselves in our words or the words of others? Things touch us more deeply when we can relate to them. Writing in all its forms has always been about human experience. We write poems about love, loss, and other afflictions because they’re a part of living. So to argue against Instagram poetry because it’s “too relatable” is pretty useless.
As for its simplicity, Instagram poetry can be seen as a pushback against overly complicated poetry (which can end up being just as “shallow”). Maybe it’s not always high-caliber writing, but not many people log onto Instagram to read Pulitzer Prize-winning poetry in the first place. Yes, it can be frustrating to see someone get a million likes for a poem that is three lines long about an Über ride. But people also crave work that is accessible to everyone.
Some writers feel that Instagram poetry doesn’t fully convey the pain or joy of living because there i is minimal effort involved. But is life really that hard to explain in the first place? It is a gift for poetry to be able to transform simple feelings into literary gold, but simplistic and expansive writing can certainly co-exist. At the end of the day, they do the same thing.
Most importantly, Instagram poetry accomplishes what we believe true art is defined by: making people feel things. Most of the time this is comfort, so it is no surprise that this genre is taking off on such a massive scale.
Rupi Kaur, Sabrina Beaman, and r.H. Sin—three of the most prominent Instagram poets—each have verified accounts with millions of followers between them, and have seen their online success turn commercial with the publication of print collections. Moreover, they’re paving the way for a new generation to enjoy poetry and are influencing the business of poetry itself.
While Instagram poetry may not be the most original, that’s part of its appeal. It’s never about finding the most unique thing to say or the most beautiful way to say it. Its artistic integrity lies in the fact that it is 100 per cent honest with you. It cuts to the heart of an emotion without any pretense and never tries to sound smarter than you. That’s not always the case in traditional poetry circles.
Instagram poetry is popular because it is hospitable and friendly. The poems are not lessons, but rather mantras and reminders. You never feel like you’re missing something. It’s comforting and easy to digest.
Plus, it takes advantage of its platform. Instagram poems are quick and to the point, easy to scroll through without occupying too many of your brain cells. That in itself is an art form.
When all is said and done, Instagram poetry is poetry—whether you like it or not.
By Ryanne Kap and Victoria Mbabazi
Please note that opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views and values of The Blank Page.
