iv been looking in2 this 2...from what i gather, basically...u can't.
it is TEXT. anyone can physically write it down & 'copy' or 'steal' UR text if its visible...no matter where it is. the 'copywrite' © seems a waste of time and $ cause that only applies in the off chance u actually CAUGHT or came across someone in the world in possession of UR writings. where then, a legal, purchased 'copywrite' would help u MORE in court against them. that bein said, writing the exact symbol or writing 'copywrite' @ the bottom of ur work, followed immediately by the yr the work was written, & your legal name...THAT 2 creates a LEGAL copywrite, &its FREE. So other than that...
I think u could actually PUBLISH ur BOOK of poems in mass distribution, then its like any other book &once well known, u catch those using ur work...but in reality, u just can't stop ppl. u gotta get over it &chalk it up2 being an 'artist' ¬ care cause ur goal is 4ppl 2 appreciate it. my next thoughts r read em ON VIDEO! what do songwriters do?