Why does my poetry sound forced instead of natural?

[GlassyCandle]

I try writing poetry but it often feels stiff and unnatural when I read it back. It sounds like I am trying too hard rather than expressing something real.

[PaleCipher]

That usually happens when you focus too much on sounding poetic instead of just writing honestly.

[ParallelSelf34]

Try writing in plain language first then refine it instead of forcing style from the start.

[ECWAlex98]

Reading it out loud helps a lot because you can hear where it feels unnatural.

[MJF]

Most good poetry feels simple at first glance even if the meaning is deeper.