Step 1: take a human,
Young, new, a blank slate,
And stuff him with:
Words
Letters
Beauty
Light
Happiness
Hope
And the knowledge that they can be what they want to be.
Step 2: mix with other humans.
Allow a few years to mingle,
Make friends
Gain LIFE EXPERIENCE
Let them learn that words are power, that emotion is beautiful and happiness is everywhere.
Note: at around the fourteen-year mark, you may see a rise in poetry and the emergence of dark clothes and a pale complexion. THIS IS NOT THE FINISHED PRODUCT. Skim the surface to get rid of terrible poetry, add more hope and stew for another few years.
Step 3: now put your poet in another place with other humans, and say:
YOU ARE DIFFERENT
YOU ARE WRONG
IF YOU ARE NOT LIKE THEM YOU WILL NOT SUCCEED IN LIFE
YOU WILL NOT BE RICH
YOU WILL NOT HAVE A HIGH-PAYING JOB
YOU WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
YOU WILL NOT BE SUCCESSFUL
Step 4: wait for your poet to stand up and say “No. I’ll be happy.”
Set aside to cool for a few years.
Note: sometimes your poet will instead bow their head and conform. If this happens, clear it away and start again, adding more hope and happiness.
Step 5: pack with inspiration,
Other poets
Hardships
Beauty
Truth,
Injustice and wonder.
Allow a few years to set. Store in a cool, dark place, away from distractions but taking out occasionally to brush with societal injustice and the beauty of life.
A well-made poet will keep for generations.