Why is biblical poetry more difficult to interpret than other genres?
I believe poetry in general is more difficult to interpret - in the same way many art forms are/can be difficult to interpret, the person observing them can apply different meanings to symbols and symbolic language. We tend to crave clear cut, black and white answers and taking this thought process into practice with biblical poetry is dangerous because poetic language is not clear cut. You can't apply a direct literal translation to poetic language which can be uncomfortable when we want the "correct" answer. Art is often subjective and sometimes that can make a reader uncomfortable.
In what ways have you seen apocalyptic literature (Daniel and Revelation) interpreted poorly? How do the tips for interpreting Apocalyptic literature avoid abusing or misusing these texts?
Currently, I hear and see people utilizing apocalyptic literature as a reason for why we are should be fearful to be living in fear of the end of the world, right here, right now. In fact I hear and see a ton of apostolic and prophet groups taking specific verses and literally applying them to modern day events. Additionally, I see the apocalyptic literature as a weapon of fear mongering within political viewpoints or even with my own social circles. In order to interpret apocalyptic literature accurately, it requires that we lean into understanding the historical happenings, communication, and symbolism of that the time period. Words/language do not always mean the same thing cross culturally or cross generationally.