I think writing poetry is kind of cross-training for improving the visual effect of prose. In poetry, the visual is part of the experience. I think it's the license to change form at will that encourages use of the visual. That also goes for punctuation. We can follow the conventions of prose and still employ visually attractive techniques. Also, we can be adventurous and try breaking set rules. I mean, where did those rules come from? They evolved over time. We are part of that evolution, aren't we? A thoughtful piece--and one that's bound to influence all who read it.