Started new ode with writer (6)
I believe the answer is:
opened
'started' is the definition.
(opening is a kind of starting)
'new ode with writer' is the wordplay.
'new' indicates an anagram.
'with' is an insertion indicator.
'writer' becomes 'pen' (something which writes).
'ode' with letters rearranged gives 'oed'.
'oed' placed around 'pen' is 'OPENED'.
(Other definitions for opened that I've seen before include "Unlocked or unfolded" , "Gave access by unlocking" , "Started, a meeting say" , "Undid, a parcel say, or began proceedings" , "Turned key to permit entry, or removed lid" .)