The use of poetry in qualitative post-hoc analysis

J Poet Ther. 2018;31(2):107-112. doi: 10.1080/08893675.2018.1448950. Epub 2018 Mar 13.

Abstract

In this brief report three poems stemming from previously completed research into the motivations of 12 Black women who participate in triathlons, are presented. A review of the transcripts revealed impactful stories from the previously identified themes Competition, Triathlete Lifestyle, and Lifespan Participation. A phenomenological approach to this post-hoc qualitative analysis provides an outlet for poetic expression. The poems, each representative of the words and life world sensations recorded within the transcripts, are of varying styles. The first is free form allowing for inconsistency in the poem pattern. The second provides comic relief in a limerick. The last is a sonnet with words that can be put to music. The reexamination of the previous research and development of the poems revealed a theme not previously cited. 'Time' is a catalyst for the triathletes and its importance is illuminated in the prose.

Keywords: Black women; motivation; poetry; time; triathlon.