You tell the story. We turn it into poetry.
Turn your story into a poem you'll keep forever.
Everyone has a story to tell but not everyone knows how to tell it. Tell it like it deserves to be told. It's not just a story, after all - it's your story. If it's important enough to say it, why not poet?
To help gather your thoughts...
1. Tell us about your story. (From previous poems)
You're celebrating a person, a couple, a milestone, an event or business. You want to roast someone, let someone know you care, want to propose, quit your job (in style). You're offering a eulogy, speaking at a rehearsal dinner, you're a secret admirer, need to apologize, want them to always know and/or never forget.
And of course, there are the Special 7: Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, Veteran's Day, Father's Day, Christmas, July 4th, and Easter.
None of the above? Then you tell us ! What is so important that it just has to be shared?
2. Questions to further personalize your story.
* Name(s), age(s), what's the subject's relationship to you?
* Who will this poem be from?
* Who else needs to be mentioned as part of this story?
* Any special nicknames for the person/people you're writing about?
* Any favorite quotes, quirks, fears, dislikes to include?
* Any inside jokes that need to be referenced?
* Hobbies or interests that need to be included?
* Secret desires, ambitions, pastimes, bad habits?
* What makes this person special?
* How would you describe them to someone who doesn't know them?
* What absolutely has to be included in this poem?
* Any subject we absolutely must avoid?
3. Describe the purpose of this story.
* I want this person to feel...or to know...or to always...or to never...
* I want to say I love you, thank you, I'm sorry, I will never forget, will always appreciate, couldn't do it without you, am better off because of you, will never let you live this down, always want to keep laughing about, etc.
4. Describe the tone of this story.
* I want them to laugh and cry - all in the same poem.
* This story will require you to be borderline inappropriate.
* It should be lighthearted and silly.
* This is a heartfelt tribute. I want them to know they're loved.
* There's no way you could offend them. (But please try. It's a roast!)
* In a word: funny, encouraging, sentimental, apologetic, direct, etc.
5. Or maybe this?
This would be the best poem ever if...
"Okay, I'm ready to order my poem. Now what?"
Click on the ORDER MY CUSTOM POEM button next to the typewriter or on the "letter p" typebar above and to the right. Just follow the prompts. Give us a paragraph or two (or three) or write it in bullet points. Doesn't matter how you do it, really. Just be clear on what's most important and what you're hoping to accomplish with your poem.
We will confirm receipt of your request and will set up a project call to ensure we know exactly what you want to say and how you want to say it. Get stuck? Don't worry, we ask great questions to ensure your poem lives up to your story.
The length of your poem will be determined by how long it takes to tell your story. Typically, poems range from 5 to 15 stanzas depending on how much you need to include. A stanza will contain 4 lines, rhyming on the 2nd and 4th unless otherwise noted.
After the call, you will receive a written recap of the scope and projected completion date as well as payment details for 50% of the total payment. Writing begins upon receipt of this payment. Once your poem is ready, you'll be notified in writing and your poem delivered upon receipt of the remaining balance due.
"So what if I see something I really really want to change?"
Of course! Let's discuss. Our goal is to honor your story with our very best effort.
Payment: The base cost for your customized poem is $75 and will be delivered to you via email as a .pdf attachment. Poems greater than 15 stanzas will carry an additional charge of $5.00 per stanza. If it appears you'll exceed 15 stanzas, we'll call you to discuss. Then in writing, you'll tell us: a) how to prioritize your details to keep it at 15, or b) the number of stanzas to keep it to, or c) move forward as is because every detail matters.
(Note: Our largest poem was 36 stanzas performed live in front of 200 family and friends. The smallest was 1 stanza. You might be surprised at how much can be communicated in 4 lines.)
SPECIAL DELIVERY PACKAGES:
* The Lewis: Poet provides the base offering plus a digital audio recording of your poem. $100
* The Foreman: Poet provides the base offering and will recite your poem live and in person.** $225 (Costumes will cost you extra.)
* The Phillips: Poet provides the base offering and will perform your poem in song - live and in person.** $350
** If you've requested either the Foreman or Phillips live performance package, the presentation date should be reserved as far in advance as possible. (Prices subject to change for travel, props, animals and foreign languages.)
"What if I need my poem now? Seriously - like today."
We can talk. Life doesn't always happen according to plan. We get it. It's okay. Just get out your wallet.
whynotpoet.com was created to give a unique voice to those people, places, events, thoughts and feelings deserving of special recognition. If it's important enough to say it, why not poet? Thank you for spending a little time with us today.
"There's something about a poem that speaks to the soul. And if you're not sure what I'm talking about, you might not have one."
The Poet
ORDER MY CUSTOM POEM
Billy wrote a song for our beloved school's farewell party. We howled and sang along together as he performed. He said all of the things that we couldn’t in the most delightful way. Billy, you are an artist! Thank you for sharing your God-given talent with the world! It was the greatest gift!
2019 Montana Magnet School Faculty
One of our friends was diagnosed with cancer. We wanted a lighthearted, fun ditty to explain how much she meant to us all. With a little information, Billy created a sweet and hilarious poem that was personalized for our precious friend. He is truly gifted with words. I am forever grateful!
Ashley Adkinson
YOU ARE AMAZING!!! [Before giving it to Tom] I read it to a group of people I’m with and we are all crying!! You did such an amazing job! He loved it!! I couldn't read it because every time I do it makes me cry. Such an incredible poem!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Allison D. from Atlanta, GA.
BILLY MCCARTHY! This is the best thing ever!!! Thank you so much! I know they’re going to LOVE IT!!!
Meredith A. from Ozark, AL.
I truly enjoy your ability to "know" the words will come and the finished product will be amazing and fruitful! Thank you, thank you, thank you! Can't wait to work with you again!
Mikelyn B. from Dothan, AL.
