when you do so pay special attention to the rhythm, sounds, syntax, and rhetorical figures of language. This is true whether you read poetry or prose. If something strikes you as being interesting in its language, ask yourself why you are interested. When you write, use the devices you are learning from your reading. To inform your thought processes, you might also read something like "A Poet's Guide to Poetry" by Mary Kinzie because it will help you direct your investigations, it will expedite your learning process. As for vocabulary, read in many areas, use your dictionary as a habit of reading, a companion to it. Also, learn the multiple senses of words and it will inform your creation of metaphors and sharpen your wordplay. There you have it; it sounds like a lot of work, but when you are doing something that is in itself enjoyable and you have some grander purpose in mind, I propose that it isn't work at all, but rather self-actualization.
And sorry for the long late reply, I was updating on of my stories. :) joy!
And sorry for the long late reply, I was updating on of my stories. :) joy!