It's more of a general descriptor for a poem that doesn't follow a specific, traditional structure. Here are some ways to understand what it might mean:
1. Breaking from Traditional Forms:
* No rhyme scheme: It might not rhyme at all, or it might have a very loose and irregular rhyme pattern.
* No fixed meter: The rhythm and number of syllables per line could be completely free.
* No specific number of lines: There's no predetermined number of lines the poem must have.
2. Experimenting with Form:
* Free verse: This is a common form for non-formula poems, where the poet has complete freedom to create their own structure based on the content and their artistic vision.
* Concrete poetry: The shape of the poem itself becomes part of the meaning, creating visual effects.
* Visual poetry: Poems that use visual elements, like images and symbols, to convey meaning.
3. Focus on Content and Emotion:
* The poet prioritizes the content and emotional impact of the poem over following any specific rules.
* The form serves the meaning, rather than the meaning being constrained by the form.
In short: A non-formula poem is a poem that is free from the constraints of traditional forms. It allows the poet to express their ideas and emotions in a way that feels natural and authentic to them.
Examples:
* Free verse poems by Walt Whitman and Allen Ginsberg are often cited as examples of non-formula poems.
* Concrete poetry by Ian McBryde and Edith Thomas.
* Visual poetry by the Dadaists and Surrealists.
Ultimately, the best way to understand a "non-formula poem" is to read a variety of poems that defy traditional structures and see how they express ideas and emotions in new and innovative ways.