How to Write a Parody Poem

The parody poem is a humorous form of imitation that seeks to entertain the audience. Parodies are also apt to make people think in the process. This form of writing has been around for centuries and continues to have a profound effect on entertainment today. Parodies come in many shapes and forms. They can be seen in films like "Scary Movie" and "Airplane" and heard in every Weird Al Yankovic song ever written. Learning how to write a parody poem is the foundation for other works.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Learn the Law of Parodies

1. Familiarize yourself with what is and what is not acceptable as part of learning how to write a parody poem. There are many online resources available. Writers who plan to publish their parody poems may want to consult an attorney.
2. Recognize the parody poem's value. Does the piece draw attention to the earlier work? Is the writing tightly crafted and thought-provoking? Is there a profound message that seeks to enlighten and entertain?
3. Ponder the effect the parody poem will have on the original work. Is the nature of the poem playful or critical? Will the publication of the parody poem hurt the original or shed light on it?
4. Learn about transformative works and fair use. Parodies fall within the range of fair use according to a Supreme Court ruling. This ruling places written work like a parody poem into the realm of commentary and criticism that is protected by the First Amendment.

Compose the Parody Poem

5. Choose a poem as a source of inspiration. The original work may be a classic or a contemporary piece. It is best to use poetry that is well known and that you love. Ideally, you should have parts of the original committed to memory.
6. Study the style and tone of the original. As you learn how to write a parody poem, you also learn a greater appreciation to the poetic devices found in the original. Make note of the rhyme and meter but also look out for other patterns in the language that makes the work unique.
7. Read examples of other parody poetry. Note how the parody imitates but uses the language to completely transform the text.
   
   T.S. Eliot's original:
   I have seen the moment of my greatness flicker,
   And I have seen the eternal Footman hold my coat, and snicker,
   And in short, I was afraid.
   
   Parody:
   I have seen the moment of my willpower flicker
   And I have eaten a whole bag of frozen snickers
   And in short, it was great
8. Start writing. Model your work after the original while addressing a completely different subject matter. The more contrast, the better. Think "Like a Virgin" transforming into "Like a Surgeon". The subject matter is so ridiculously different from the original that it naturally stirs a smile.
9. Read your parody poem aloud. Does the work follow the flow and rhythm of the original? Does the piece make you chuckle? Does the parody poetry have intensity and emotion gone awry?
10. Give the poem time to rest and revisit it with fresh eyes. Revise it if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Transformative works need to change the original significantly enough to not fall under plagiarism.
• Start with a poem that you truly love.
• Focus on humor.
• When in doubt, consult a professional about fair use and parodies.