Got this in a bundle and stopped playing games for a long while. I regret that it took me so long to play this.
I'm a big fan of writing poetry and have a nonzero amount of history knowledge on this setting. I actively seek a challenge when I play, and I get that challenge. It's a freaking blast.
Modes are great challenges, but they are just that: challenges. The game already demands your brain power, and a new poet or player could really struggle with it. It's like an "Advanced Mode" toggle. I would suggest newer poets go easy on themselves and not feel bad if they don't know jack about meter.
As opposed to starting a new round fresh, I use Poker Play to make the next round a continuation of the previous. Craft an ongoing story, in a way, across multiple different poems. Another way to add yet more depth to the experience of an already rich and flavorful game.
I plan on trying this with others in the future, but for now, the solo play is great. I'm having a wonderful time.