Although writing poetry is much more rewarding, it can be harder than simply analyzing someone else's work. Because poetry requires such inspiration, more time and energy are needed to complete a good piece of literary art. If the creative juices are not flowing, writer's block can be frustrating and discouraging. The freedom that goes along with poetry is also rewarding. Any idea can be turned into poetry. The beauty and thought that poetry provokes can be as rewarding as the writing of the poem itself. As a whole, the process of writing poetry can be difficult, but the final result is usually worth the struggle.
Writing about poetry is much more simple in many ways. For the most part, analysis is more structured, with specific points of consideration. Much of the time, analysis is based on the formal structure of the poem, rather than interpretation of a poem. Writing about poetry can be easier from a formalist perspective. Inspiration in analysis is not really necessary as this aspect of poetry is ingrained into the minds of English majors. Analysis can be learned, whereas inspiration and creativity are more innate.
Even as I write this, I find that it was easier than writing the creative poetry, but it is not nearly as enjoyable. In my opinion, the difference lies in the process. The process of writing poetry, although more difficult, is more rewarding. In contrast, the process of writing about poetry is easier, but is not filled with inspiration and creativity.
