Here's a breakdown of the considerations:
Traditional Poetry:
* Formal poetry often follows strict rules, including punctuation.
* Sonnets, villanelles, and other traditional forms usually include periods at the end of lines.
Modern and Free Verse Poetry:
* Free verse is less restrictive, allowing for creative use of punctuation.
* Periods can be used sparingly or omitted altogether to create a sense of flow, rhythm, or emphasis.
* The lack of periods can also create a sense of fragmentation or stream of consciousness.
Overall:
* The decision to use periods is ultimately up to the poet.
* Consider how punctuation impacts the rhythm, flow, and meaning of the poem.
* Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you.
Here are some examples to illustrate:
Traditional:
> The curfew tolls the knell of parting day,
> The lowing herd wind slowly o'er the lea,
> The ploughman homeward plods his weary way,
> And leaves the world to darkness and to me.
Modern/Free Verse:
> The city hums
> a symphony of concrete and steel
> a million stories unfolding
> in the flickering neon lights.
Ultimately, the key is to be aware of the effect punctuation has on your poem and to choose the style that best suits your intended message and artistic vision.