Here's a breakdown:
* Poetry: The broader category encompassing all types of verse, including sonnets, haikus, epics, etc.
* Confessional Poetry: A subgenre that focuses on the personal experiences and emotions of the poet. It often delves into deeply personal and sometimes controversial topics like mental illness, sexuality, addiction, and trauma.
While confessional poetry doesn't have a specific form like a sonnet or haiku, it often exhibits the following characteristics:
* First-person perspective: The poet speaks directly about their own experiences and feelings.
* Raw and unfiltered language: Confessional poets often use direct and sometimes even vulgar language to express their emotions authentically.
* Focus on introspection and self-examination: The poetry explores the poet's inner world, often with a critical eye.
* Exploration of taboo subjects: Confessional poetry often touches on topics that were previously considered taboo or inappropriate for public discussion.
Key Poets associated with Confessional Poetry:
* Sylvia Plath
* Anne Sexton
* Robert Lowell
* W.D. Snodgrass
It's important to note that confessional poetry can be interpreted in various ways and is not necessarily limited to the above characteristics. It is a dynamic and evolving subgenre that continues to influence contemporary poetry.