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101 Poetry Prompts & Ideas for Writing Poems

Not sure what to write a poem about? Here’s 101 poetry prompts to get you started!

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These poetry prompts are designed to help you keep a creative writing practice. If you’re staring at a blank page and the words aren’t flowing, the creative writing prompts for poems can be a great way to get started!

New for 2023! Due to popular demand, I created a printable, ad-free version of these poetry prompts you can download to use at home or even in the classroom! Get them at our Etsy Shop .

Even if poetry isn’t your thing, you could always use these things to inspire other writing projects. Essays, journal entries, short stories, and flash fiction are just a few examples of ways this list can be used.

You may even find this list of creative poetry writing prompts helpful as an exercise to build your skills in descriptive writing and using metaphors!

Let’s get onto the list, shall we?

Here are 101 Poetry Prompts for Creative Writing

Most of these creative writing ideas are simple and open-ended. This allows you total creative freedom to write from these poetry prompts in your own unique style, tone, and voice.

If one poetry idea doesn’t appeal to you, challenge yourself to find parallels between the prompt and things that you do enjoy writing about!

1.The Untouchable : Something that will always be out of reach

2. 7 Days, 7 Lines : Write a poem where each line/sentence is about each day of last week

3. Grandma’s Kitchen : Focus on a single memory, or describe what you might imagine the typical grandmother’s kitchen to be like

4. Taste the Rainbow : What does your favorite color taste like?

5. Misfits: How it feels when you don’t belong in a group of others.

6. Stranger Conversations : Start the first line of your poem with a word or phrase from a recent passing conversation between you and someone you don’t know.

7. On the Field : Write from the perspective of a sports ball {Baseball, Soccer, Football, Basketball, Lacrosse, etc.} – think about what the sports ball might feel, see, hear, think, and experience with this poetry idea!

8. Street Signs: Take note of the words on signs and street names you pass while driving, walking, or riding the bus. Write a poem starting with one of these words you notice.

9. Cold water: What feelings do you associate with cold water? Maybe it’s a refreshing cold glass of water on a hot day, or maybe you imagine the feelings associated with being plunged into the icy river in the winter.

10. Ghostwriter: Imagine an invisible ghost picks up a pen and starts writing to you.

11. Lessons From Math Class: Write about a math concept, such as “you cannot divide by zero” or never-ending irrational numbers.

12. Instagram Wall: Open up either your own Instagram account or one of a friend/celebrity and write poetry based on the first picture you see.

13. Radio: Tune in to a radio station you don’t normally listen to, and write a poem inspired by the the first song or message you hear.

14. How To : Write a poem on how to do something mundane most people take for granted, such as how to tie your shoes, how to turn on a lamp, how to pour a cup of coffee.

15. Under 25 Words : Challenge yourself to write a poem that is no more than 25 words long.

16. Out of Order: Write about your feelings when there is an out of order sign on a vending machine.

17. Home Planet: Imagine you are from another planet, stuck on earth and longing for home.

18. Uncertainty : Think about a time in your life when you couldn’t make a decision, and write based on this.

19. Complete : Be inspired by a project or task be completed – whether it’s crossing something off the never-ending to-do list, or a project you have worked on for a long time.

20. Compare and Contrast Personality : What are some key differences and similarities between two people you know?

21. Goodbyes : Write about a time in your life you said goodbye to someone – this could be as simple as ending a mundane phone conversation, or harder goodbyes to close friends, family members, or former partners.

22. Imagine Weather Indoors : Perhaps a thunderstorm in the attic? A tornado in the kitchen?

23. Would You Rather? Write about something you don’t want to do, and what you would rather do instead.

24. Sound of Silence : Take some inspiration from the classic Simon & Garfunkel song and describe what silence sounds like.

25. Numbness : What’s it like to feel nothing at all?

26. Fabric Textures : Use different fiber textures, such as wool, silk, and cotton as a poetry writing prompt.

27. Anticipation : Write about the feelings you experience or things you notice while waiting for something.

28. Poison: Describe something toxic and its effects on a person.

29. Circus Performers: Write your poetry inspired by a circus performer – a trapeze artist, the clowns, the ringmaster, the animal trainers, etc.

30. Riding on the Bus : Write a poem based on a time you’ve traveled by bus – whether a school bus, around town, or a long distance trip to visit a certain destination.

31. Time Freeze : Imagine wherever you are right now that the clock stops and all the people in the world are frozen in place. What are they doing?

32. The Spice of Life : Choose a spice from your kitchen cabinet, and relate its flavor to an event that has happened recently in your daily life.

33. Parallel Universe : Imagine you, but in a completely different life based on making a different decision that impacted everything else.

34. Mad Scientist : Create a piece based on a science experiment going terribly, terribly wrong.

35. People You Have Known : Make each line about different people you have met but lost contact with over the years. These could be old friends, passed on family, etc.

36. Last Words : Use the last sentence from the nearest book as the inspiration for the first line of your poem.

37. Fix This : Think about something you own that is broken, and write about possible ways to fix it. Duct tape? A hammer and nails?

38. Suspicion : Pretend you are a detective and you have to narrow down the suspects.

39. Political News : Many famous poets found inspiration from the current politics in their time. Open up a newspaper or news website, and create inspired by the first news article you find.

40. The Letter D : Make a list of 5 words that start with all with the same letter, and then use these items throughout the lines of your verse. {This can be any letter, but for example sake: Daisy, Dishes, Desk, Darkness, Doubt}

41. Quite the Collection : Go to a museum, or look at museum galleries online. Draw your inspiration from collections of objects and artifacts from your favorite display. Examples: Pre-historic days, Egyptians, Art Galleries, etc.

42. Standing in Line : Think of a time you had to stand in line for something. Maybe you were waiting in a check-out line at the store, or you had to stand in line to enter a concert or event.

43. Junk Mail Prose: Take some inspiration from your latest junk mail. Maybe it’s a grocery store flyer announcing a sale on grapes, or an offer for a credit card.

44. Recipe : Write your poem in the form of a recipe. This can be for something tangible, such as a cake, or it can be a more abstract concept such as love or happiness. List ingredients and directions for mixing and tips for cooking up your concept to perfection.

45. Do you like sweaters? Some people love their coziness, others find them scratchy and too hot. Use your feelings about sweaters in a poem.

46. After Party : What is it like after all party guests go home?

47. Overgrown : Use Little Shop of Horrors for inspiration, or let your imagination run wild on what might happen if a plant or flower came to life or started spreading rapidly to take over the world.

48. Interference: Write a poem that is about someone or something coming in between you and your goals.

49. On Shaky Ground: Use an earthquake reference or metaphor in your poem.

50. Trust Issues : Can you trust someone you have doubted in the past?

51. Locked in a Jar: Imagine you are a tiny person, who has been captured and put into a jar for display or science.

52. Weirder Than Fiction: Think of the most unbelievable moment in your life, and write a poem about the experience.

53. Fast Food: Write a poem about fast food restaurants and experiences.

54. Unemployed: Write a poem about quitting or being fired from a job you depended on.

55. Boxes: What kinds of family secrets or stories might be hiding in that untouched box in the attic?

56. No One Understands : Write about what it feels like when no one understands or agrees with your opinion.

57. Criminal Minds : Write a poem from the perspective of a high-profile criminal who is always on the run from law enforcement.

58. Marathon Runner : Write a poem about what training you might be doing to accomplish a difficult challenge in your life.

59. Trapped : Write about an experience that made you feel trapped.

60. Passing the Church : Write a poem about noticing something interesting while passing by a church near your home.

61. Backseat Driver: Write about what it’s like to be doing something in your life and constantly being criticized while trying to move ahead.

62. Luster: Create a descriptive poem about something that has a soft glow or sheen to it.

63. Clipboard: Write a poem about someone who is all business like and set in their ways of following a system.

64. Doctor: Write a poem about receiving advice from a doctor.

65. First Car : Write an ode to your first car

66. Life Didn’t Go As a Planned : Write about a recent or memorable experience when nothing went according to plan.

67. Architect : Imagine you are hired to design a building for a humanitarian cause you are passionate about.

68. The Crazy Cat Hoarder : Write about someone who owns far too many cats.

69. Queen : Write a poem from the perspective of a queen.

70. Movie Character : Think of a recent movie you watched, and create a poem about one character specifically, or an interaction between two characters that was memorable.

71. Potential Energy : Write about an experience where you had a lot of potential for success, but failed.

72. Moonlight : Write about an experience in the moonlight.

73. Perfection : Write about trying to always keep everything perfect.

74. You Are Wrong : Write a poem where you tell someone they are wrong and why.

75. Sarcasm : Write a poem using sarcasm as a form of illustrating your point.

76. Don’t Cry : Write a poem about how not to cry when it’s hard to hold back the tears.

77. Listen Up: Write a poem telling someone they are better than they think they are.

78. Flipside : Find the good in something terrible.

79. Maybe They Had a Reason : Write a poem about someone doing something you don’t understand, and try to explain what reasons they might have had.

80. How to Drive : Write a poem that explains how to drive to a teenager.

81. Up & Down the Steps: Write a poem that includes the motion of going up or down a staircase

82. Basket Case: Has there ever been a time when you thought you might lose your mind? Jot your feelings and thoughts down in verse form.

83. Lucky Guess: Many times in our life we have to make a good guess for what is the best decision. Use this poetry idea to write about feelings related to guessing something right – or wrong.

84. Dear Reader: What audience enjoys reading the type of poetry you like to write? Craft a note to your potential audience that addresses their biggest fears, hopes, and dreams.

85. All or Nothing : Share your thoughts on absolutist thinking: when one’s beliefs are so set in stone there are no exceptions.

86. Ladders in the Sky : Imagine there are ladders that take you up to the clouds. What could be up there? What feelings do you have about climbing the ladders, or is their a mystery as to how they got there in the first place?

87. Always On My Mind: Compose a poem about what it’s like to always be thinking about someone or something.

88. Paranoia : What would it be like if you felt like someone was watching you but no one believed you?

89. Liar, Liar: How would you react to someone who lied to you?

90. Secret Word: What’s the magic word to unlock someone’s access to something?

91. For What It’s Worth: Use a valuable object in your home as inspiration as a poetry prompt idea.

92. Coming Home to Secrets: Imagine a person who puts on a good act to cover up a secret they deal with at home.

93. Productivity: Talk about your greatest struggles with time management and organization.

94. Defying Gravity: Use words that relate to being weightless and floating.

95. Signs of the Times : How has a place you are familiar with changed over the past 10 years?

96. Sleepless Nights : What ideas and feelings keep you up at night? What’s it like when you have to wake up in the morning on a night you can’t sleep?

97. You Can’t Fire Me, I Quit : Use one of the worst job related memories you can think of as a creative writing prompt.

98. By George : You can choose any name, but think of 3-5 notable figures or celebrities who share a common first name, and combine their personalities and physical characteristics into one piece of poetry. For example: George Washington, George Clooney, George Harrison.

99. Shelter : Write a poem about a time you were thankful for shelter from a storm.

100. Cafeteria : Create a poem inspired by the people who might be eating lunch in a cafeteria at school or at a hospital.

101. Dusty Musical Instruments : Base your poem around the plight of a musician who hasn’t picked up the guitar or touched a piano in years.

Love these prompts? The printable, ad-free version of these poetry prompts can be used offline or in the classroom! Get them at our Etsy Shop .

There are unlimited possibilities for ways you can use these poem ideas to write poetry. Using a list like this can greatly help you with getting into the habit of writing daily – even when you don’t feel inspired to write.

While not every poem you write will be an award-winning masterpiece, using these poem starters as a regular exercise can help you better your craft as a writer.

I hope you enjoy these poetry prompts – and if you write anything you’d like to share inspired by these creative poetry writing prompts, let us know in the comments below – we love to see how others use writing ideas to create their own work!

And of course, don’t forget to get the ad-free poetry prompt cards printable version if you’d like to use these prompts offline, in the classroom or with your small group!

Chelle Stein wrote her first embarrassingly bad novel at the age of 14 and hasn't stopped writing since. As the founder of ThinkWritten, she enjoys encouraging writers and creatives of all types.

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132 Best Poetry Prompts and Ideas to Spark Creativity

Many great minds considered poetry to be the superior form of art. It transcends mortality and the transience of human life and becomes an eternal monument of people’s existence and creativity. Poetry that was written hundreds of years ago can still mesmerize, astonish, inspire, move, horrify, and elevate us.

There is an unlimited number of themes that can be used to produce great poetry. Inspiration can find its way in a myriad of ways, so this is a chance for you to get your creative juices flowing. Poetry prompts can be of great help when you are trying to find your poetic voice, or trying to step outside your comfort zone. We hope that these ten sets of themes will bring the best of your writing skills.

Ideas for poems about different types of emotions

It is no wonder that the first set is dedicated to emotions. Poetry is almost synonymous with people’s emotional footprint. These 10 prompts cover a wide range of human emotions, so dive in deep!

Write a poem about a moment when you felt overwhelmingly joyful. Try to convey this emotion by depicting the setting, the time, and what prompted this strong feeling of happiness and joy. Was it a personal success? Perhaps a wish you’ve had for years finally came true. Whatever it was, draw from your own life experience.
Sadness is a complex emotion that all of us have felt. Sadness often gives birth to the most poetical literary pieces because many people have experienced grief, or unhappiness at a certain point in their life. Write about the cause for your sadness. Perhaps you experienced a loss of a loved one, perhaps it was a professional failure. Oftentimes, people feel sad when they had their trust betrayed by a person they considered a friend.
When was the last time you felt truly angry? Think of a moment when you suffered injustice at your workplace, or you were deceived by a person you love and trust. Writing a poem about anger can be a powerful poetic expression and a way to deal with your anger.
Write a poem about a time when you felt scared. It can be told from a perspective of a frightened child, or, perhaps, an adult afraid for his/her life. Sometimes fear is connected to certain expectations and uncertainties about the future.
Imagine that you feel very proud. What prompted this feeling of pride? Being proud is usually the result of an accomplishment on a personal or a private level.
Write a poem about a time in your life when you felt brave and powerful. Describe the circumstances that led to this outburst of bravery in a personal, or professional setting. Let the reader feel the confidence and resolution in your actions through the power of verse.
Alienation is a feeling that can be soul-crushing. All people experience some moments in life when they feel as if they don’t quite fit in, or are overlooked. The feeling of alienation is often linked to the feeling of low self-worth. Write about how you managed to overcome this feeling and who, or what helped you in the process. Many people will recognize themselves in a poem about personal alienation.
Another poetry prompt about an emotion is writing about anxiety. In these modern times filled with busy schedules, it is more than expected that people would feel anxious. Take a deep look within and try to discover the source of anxiety in your own life. Sometimes it is the workplace, sometimes it’s your love life, but sometimes people have existential crises that lead to anxiety due to life’s uncertainty and complexity.
Pessimism is a theme widely explored in poetry. People often feels pessimistic due to a variety of problems in their lives. Writing a poem about pessimism may inspire people to try and find another way to look at the world by seeing things in a new perspective.
On the opposite side of the specter is optimism. A poem about being optimistic often falls in the category of carpe-diem poems, or poems about seizing the day and making the best of every opportunity that presents itself in our lives. Write poetry about a bright time in your life when you felt that every new day offered a new chance to become better, happier, and more successful.

Ideas for poems about love

For many people love represents the meaning of life. With its so many forms, love is an eternal spring for inspiration all over the world and across generations.

A mother holding her baby for the first time is one of the most intense human experiences. Try to capture the deepest connection between two human beings that happens instantly. Find a new way to depict the unconditional love that is born with the birth of the baby.
Write a poem about love between siblings. Siblings, especially when they are younger, sometimes have strange ways of showing their love for one another. Write about the big and small gestures that describe the loving connection between brothers and sisters.
Do you believe in love at first sight? Describe the setting, the time, and the situation in which two strangers meet and instantly develop strong feelings of affection. You can write it in a form of a dialogue, or use love letters. You can also give their personal perspectives in different stanzas.
The theme is “a marriage proposal.” Imagine that this poem is written by a person who is planning to propose to their partner. List all the reasons why you think that these two lovers are perfect for each other.
Love stories are never absolutely perfect. Write about a fight between two spouses. Describe the circumstances and the reasons for experiencing anger towards the person you love. Present both sides of the argument. Try to find an elegant solution to the fight and end the poem with a reconciliation.
Not every fight ends in making peace. Unfortunately, some love stories end in divorce. Write about the complex feelings that the two ex-lovers experience in the process.
Unrequited love can be horrible and depressing. The world’s greatest literature includes poem about unrequited love. Try to draw from either personal experience, or from people who are close to you. How did you try to win the other person over? What was the major obstacle? Were you disillusioned about love afterwards?
Write a poem about the one who got away. Start by describing the first date, the first kiss, the first fight, and the last fight before the end of the romance. Write about the expectations you both had from the relationships, the red flags, the disappointment, and the lost love.
Write a poem about the love between your grandparents. How did they show their affection for one another? Which small love gestures did you enjoy witnessing as a child? What did you learn from seeing how much they still care for each other? Try to portray the respect and devotion of a long-lasting relationship.
Talk about love in general. Write about the reasons why it is a vital part of human’s experience. Meditate upon your own experiences regarding different kinds of love. Write about the ways in which love makes us better people. Find different ways to depict the manner in which love enriches our souls.

Ideas for poems about life in general

Life is mysteriously beautiful, complex, difficult, and painful. You can show your appreciation for it, by writing on at least one of the following ten prompts.

Growing old is an important part of the life cycle. Some people fear the inevitable end so much that they don’t live their life to the fullest. Others are older and wiser, so they happily pass their knowledge and wisdom to the future generations. Write about your own experience, or how the old age of family members has affected your own life.
Write a poem about a specific accomplishment in your life and how it has improved you as a person.
The main theme of the poem is “the life cycle.” Everything which is born eventually dies, and the cycle starts again.
Write a poem about the experience of a couple who is expecting a baby. Write about the overwhelming emotions, love, affection, and care that the future parents feel.
There are many obstacles in life, and facing them is an important aspect in a person’s life. Write a poem about the potential hardships in life and how they affect people’s lives.
Write a poem from a child’s point of view. Remember how you used to perceive the world and how you tried to explain things to yourself using child’s logic. The poem will depict the sweetly naïve child’s perceptions of the world.
Write a poem about hope. Life is hard and complex as it is, so hope is often our driving force. Think of a time when you were hopeful.
Write a poem about a usual, boring day. Find poetry in the monotony of life.
Write a poem about travelling to a foreign country. Capture the essence of changing scenery, and dwell on the way travelling makes us more open-minded.
Think of a time when you were badly hurt. Write a poem about how you dealt with the pain.

Ideas for poems about death

People from every culture and generation in the world have been obsessed with understanding death and what comes after it. It brings, sadness, nostalgia, wisdom. These ten prompts can stir your imagination and inspire philosophical thought about the most mysterious concept in the world.

Write a poem about the fondest memory you have of a person who had passed away. Why is this memory so special? How did you feel when this person died?
Death is often personified. Write a poem addressing Death as a person. What is it that you would like to tell him? What would you want to ask him?
Imagine that you are Death and you hate your vocation. How do you justify your actions? You can use a lighter tone for the poem.
Write a poem about a person who had a near-death experience. What happened to them? How did they survive? Did they change for the better after it?
Write a poem about a real or an imaginary genocide.
Write a poem about a person trying to deceive Death and reach immortality.
Write a poem about the death of a pet. What did you do to help you deal with the loss?
Imagine that you have only a day to live. What would you do?
Write a poem about the first time you understood the concept of death.
How do you want to be remembered after you die? Write a poem about how your death is going to affect your loved ones.

Ideas for poems about philosophy

People are gifted with intelligence, wisdom, and the power to think in abstract ways. People’s quest to understand the meaning of life and the world surrounding us is a fantastic basis for writing poetry.

Write a poem about what you perceive to be the meaning of life.
Friendship is a type of human connection that makes people happier and healthier in every possible way. Write a poem about your best friend, or somebody you’ve lost.
The thirst for knowledge is a concept that defines us as a human race. Write a poem about the eternal quest for knowledge.
Imagination is a distinctly human quality. Write a poem about the role imagination plays in creating art.
Write a poem inspired by the Machiavellian quote that the goal justifies the means.
Write a poem about people’s ancient desire to explain the natural phenomena by inventing elaborate mythological stories.
Write a poem about the good and the bad aspects of humility.
Patience teaches us a valuable lesson about controlling our desires. Write a poem about a time when you had to be patient when you wanted something.
Write a poem about the benefits from daily meditation.
Write a poem about perfection. Think of the combination of aesthetics and ethics and how perfection can be achieved.

Ideas for poems about everyday things

Sometimes the most poetic compositions are created out of the simplicity of life. These ten prompts can help you find poetry in the smallest of things around you.

Write a poem about your everyday little rituals.
Write a poem about raindrops slowly falling down the window glass while you’re thinking about your life in general.
Write a poem about a relaxing walk in the park. Use natural imagery, but also try to depict the noises you hear: rustling, splashing, chirping, etc.
Write a short poem about the simple pleasure one gets from eating a juicy piece of fruit.
Pets are an important part in our lives. Write a poem about the joyfulness from playing with your pet.
Everybody makes mistakes, so write a poem about apologizing to somebody for something you’ve done.
Write a poem about a sunny morning when you went out and bought some flowers from a flower shop.
Eating a dessert might be the most relaxing and enjoyable part of dinner. Write a short poem about eating a delicious dessert.
Write a poem about a time when you didn’t have electricity due to a heavy storm, so you had to read a book using a candlelight.
Think of an activity that relaxes you before falling asleep and write a poem about it. Perhaps the activity can be listening to Mozart!

Ideas for poems about time

Time, even for scientists, is one of the most interesting concepts. Its abstractness has served as an inspiration for many philosophical and literary works. The following prompts can guide you into writing poetry about different complexities of the notion of time.

Write a poem about a childhood memory that still brings you joy when you think about it.
Write a poem about the modern age we live it. What is positive and what is negative about living today
Think of a lost opportunity because the timing wasn’t right. Write a poem about the importance of using every opportunity, which is difficult because people often find excuses for their failures.
Write about a person who has wasted his/her youth. This person feels immensely remorseful.
Waking up after having spent a few months in a coma can make people reevaluate their life choices and decisions.
Write a poem about a time in the past when you experienced an epiphany – a sudden realization of great truth.
Write about the development of the human life, starting from the time a person is a toddler.
Describe the sunset and use it as a metaphor for the end of a person’s life.
Describe the sunrise and link it metaphorically to the concept of birth.
Write a poem about an antique clock.

Ideas for poems about different forms of art

Poetry has always been regarded as one of the most sophisticated aspects of human existence. As a form of art, it is inevitably connected to other forms of art. These ten prompts can inspire pieces that combine different artforms.

Write a poem about the feelings that overcome you while listening to your favorite music.
Write a poem about a Shakespearean play.
Write a poem about a mysterious painter.
Write a poem from the perspective of a ballet shoes.
Describe the images and stories painted on a Grecian urn.
Imagine that you are a famous painter looking at a freshly finished piece. Write a poem about the painter’s perceptions of a painting.
Write a poem about a day spent in a museum.
Write a poem about a film character that you admire.
Write a poem that will instruct actors on the manner that they should act, which is similar to prince Hamlet’s speech to the players.
Write a modernized version of a famous speech taken from a Renaissance play.

Ideas for poems about historical events

Historia est magistra vitae. Indeed, history teaches us about life. Numerous works have been written celebrating historical events, so this is your chance to use verses to do the same.

Imagine that you lived in the period of Alexander the Great. Write a poem about him.
Write a poem about the hardships in World War I.
Write a poem about life in the industrial revolution in England.
Write a poem about Martin Luther King.
Imagine that you are an archaeologist who makes a startling discovery in Egypt.
Imagine you saw the apple falling on Sir Isaac Newton’s head.
Write a poem about Queen Elizabeth I. She was an exceptional monarch that deserves literary praise.
Write a poem about the trial of Galileo Galilei.
You are Alexander Bell, the person who invented the telephone. How is the world different because of you?
Write a poem about Archimedes and his “eureka” moment.

Ideas for poems about religion and spirituality

If something truly separates us humans from the other forms of life on this planet, it is spirituality. The belief in a higher power is a distinctively human quality. Delve deeper into your own beliefs and spirituality and put your religious experience into words.

How can you restore the faith in God in somebody who seems to have lost it? How can you help this person find his way again?
Imagine that you are one of the three Magi following a star to Bethlehem.
Write a poem about a moment you felt that you are one with nature.
Describe your feelings after meditation. Write about the setting, your surroundings, and the feelings that come rushing in.
Write a poem about the afterlife. It doesn’t have to your own perception. It can be inspired by major religions.
Think of a religious temple you’ve visited. How did it make you feel? Where was it? Is it real, or imaginary?
Everybody has experienced personal hardships. Write a poem about a difficult period in your life and about your prayers to overcome it.
The death of a close family member, or a spouse can be the most traumatic experience in a person’s life. Write about your relationship to God after you lost somebody you loved. Did it change?
Write a poem about temptation. Did you give in to the temptation? How did you feel after that?
Imagine that you are God for only a day. What would you do with your power?

Ideas for poems about family life

The family life is in the core of a healthy society. Family ties can bring you joy, sadness, love, pride, etc. Use the following prompts to express your understanding of family life.

Write a poem about a child who gets a puppy as a Christmas present.
Describe a family trip to the ZOO. The tone can be lighter, and it can be told from the children’s point of view.
Write a poem about a family summer vacation. Draw inspiration from from jumping into the water, sunbathing, building sand castles, exploring cities’ architecture and culture. A summer vacation brings the best in every family, so you could go back to your own childhood in order to depict a realistic representation of the feeling.
You are celebrating Christmas with your extended family. Write a poem about the conversation around the dinner table.
Imagine that you are a mother, or a father expecting a child. You have created a new heartbeat in the world. Try to depict the wonders that surround procreation.
You are planning a surprise birthday party for you father and you’ve invited all of his close friends into his home.
Write a poem celebrating your parent’s 40-year anniversary. Tell them why this is a special event for you, how much they’ve touched your life, and how much affection you have for them.
Imagine that you are stuck with your sibling in an elevator for two hours. What are you going to talk about?
Write a poem about leaving the home you were born in and moving to anew place. Try to portray the strong feelings of nostalgia and the memories that arise from packing your life in card boxes.
Write a poem about an ill family member. Use your verses to make them feel better and to bring hope that everything will turn out alright in the end.

Ideas for poems about nature and travelling

Nature is a powerful and mesmerizing force that sustains us. We are a part of nature, and nature is within all of us. These ten prompts can serve as an inspiration for you to create an homage to this planet.

Write a poem about the beginning of spring and the new cycle of life. Use natural imagery, colors, and active verbs that would signify the awakening of nature.
Think of a city that you haven’t visited yet, but you really want to. Why is it so? Is it because it is exotic? Is it because of its architecture? Perhaps, you are more interested in the people and their culture.
Write a poem about a natural phenomenon. Are you astonished by it? Is it devastating for people? Focus on the power of nature.
Imagine that you are a raindrop and describe your journey.
Many poems have been written about the Sun and the Moon. Try to find a different angle when writing about them.
Write a poem about meeting an interesting/mysterious/funny person on a train in a foreign country. How did you start the conversation? How long did you talk? Did you explore the city together?
Imagine that you are on top of Mount Everest. How do you feel? Who are you with? How can you inspire other mountaineers to conquer the highest mountain peak?
The ocean, unlike the earth, can’t be conquered by humans. The ocean is too powerful and people are it his mercy during every voyage, regardless of the length. Write a poem about the respect people should have for this large body of water.
Write a poem about the change of seasons and the passing of time.
Imagine that you’ve been granted to power to fly for a month. Where would you go? Why? How do you think your life and perceptions will change after that month?

Ideas for poems with supernatural elements

Human’s imagination is limitless and astonishing. Centuries ago people would come together to tell stories, often incorporating supernatural elements in their accounts. By doing so, they were able to cause catharsis. Mythologies were created because people couldn’t explain natural phenomena. The fight between personifications of good and evil have been of great interest for millions of literature lovers. Here are 12 prompts to help you get started.

Imagine that you are moving into what others believe to be a haunted house.
How far would you go to save a loved one? Would you make a deal with the devil?
You are sage who gives advice to people you believe have kind hearts.
You are a dragon defending your family from human invaders.
Write a poem about a princess locked in a high tower and who isn’t allowed to look at the real world outside her windows.
You find a magic ring in your grandmother’s old casket. You can heal whomever you want on the expense of another human being.
A man who presumably has died at sea returns on Halloween to his old house to visit his grieving mother.
You have the ability to communicate with trees and gain wisdom.
Write a poem from the point of view of a werewolf.
Write a poem about the three Fates who decide on the fate of a baby.
Imagine that world is slowly disappearing and nobody could explain how. Offer a solution to the problem.
You have the ability to foretell the future. You see a great tragedy on a large scale that is to happen in a month. What do you do to stop it? Can you really alter the future with your actions?

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The best poetry writing prompts

Poetry is one of the oldest art forms in history, stretching back to the times when poems were sung and chanted as hymns around a bonfire, but even the greats back then had some help. While a poet of yore had to turn to technology-less sources in their life to find inspiration — music, friends, places, nature, even memories— these days you can simply go online to get the poetry writing prompts you might need to spark poem ideas.

Whether you’re looking to connect with your feelings on the page, understand your perspective on an event, or explore a past experience through the lens of words, poetry writing prompts are a great way to sharpen your writing skills and hone your relationship with language. We hope that these creative writing exercises can assist you in channeling those emotions and help you on your journey as a poet!

To get you started, here are our top ten poetry writing prompts:

Write a poem about fall.
Write a poem inspired by your favorite saying.

If you're looking for some more help writing a poem, check out this free resource:

How to Write a Poem (blog post) : A poem could be a six-word haiku, or it could be a two-hundred page epic in the veins of Kate Tempest’s Brand New Ancients. Whatever you’re looking to write, this comprehensive series of blog posts will take you through all of the steps involved in writing a poem: from the different types of poetry that you can write to how to write (and publish!) a poem.

Want to expand beyond poetry and learn how to write a short story? Check out How to Write a Short Story That Gets Published — a free, ten day course guiding you through the process of short story writing by Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who runs a book editing company in Brooklyn.

Ready to start writing? Check out Reedsy’s weekly short story contest , for the chance of winning $250! You can also check out our list of writing contests or our directory of literary magazines for more opportunities to submit your story.

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22 Poetry Prompts to Help You Write Your Next Great Poem

While there is so much joy associated with writing, there is one pitfall that we all fall prey to—the dreaded writer’s block. It can strike at any moment and fill our hearts with frustration. But never fear! Sometimes, all we need is a small spark of inspiration. Poetry prompts can be a great way to get the creative juices flowing after a dry spell.

If nothing else, it might be what prompts you to start putting pen to paper again. Even if you’re not always sure where a prompt or writing session will lead, try and choose a prompt or two and just start writing. It might start you down the path to your next major breakthrough.

I hope these prompts help you focus and get excited about your poetic journey. Happy writing:

1. Choose one of your five senses. Write a poem that focuses on your chosen sense.

2. write a poem inspired by a color., 3. write a poem based on something that happened to you this week. it could be something life-changing or something seemingly ordinary. tune into that moment and paint a story about it., 4. listen to one of your favorite songs and write a poem directly after based on the feelings and emotions it brought about in you. let music inspire poetry., 5. write about a lesson that you recently learned. , 6. think of a friend or family member who has played a huge role in your life. write a poem about the relationship. , 7. write a poem about the life advice you would give to your younger self. , 8. write about traveling—whether it’s taking a road trip or flying in a plane or spending the afternoon on a train. write about the feelings you experience while being en route to somewhere new or familiar. , 9. recall a favorite holiday memory and tell your readers about it. , 10. create a gallery of your heart. take readers on a guided tour of what they might see there. , 11. recall one of the strangest dreams you’ve ever had and write about how it made you feel or write it out in as much detail as you can remember. , 12. write about a time that your illusions of someone or something were shattered. , 13. write about a favorite childhood toy, movie, book, etc. and tie it back to the present day. , 14. you are renovating a home. imagine that you are this home. what serves as your foundation what are you working on fixing what needs to be replaced and what makes your house a home describe., 15. write a haiku inspired by an element of nature. (haikus are three lines. the first line has five syllables, the second line has seven syllables, and the third line has five syllables)., 16. write a poem where you are observing another time period as a detached observer. (this could be a time from your past or from another decade or era)., 17. write a poem from the perspective of your favorite pet. , 18. imagine that you switched places with someone for a day. (like in freaky friday). what would you learn from the experience , 19. write a piece about body positivity, as though you are looking into the mirror and speaking to your reflection. , 20. if you could freeze time in one moment of your life, what would it be write a poem in honor of that memory. , 21. imagine you are on a run through nature. describe your inner dialogue as you run through the trail at sunrise. what do you reflect on as you run , 22. has there ever been a time when you felt like the hero of your life how about the villain write yourself as the hero, then write yourself as the villain. paint the perspectives of each and explore the different aspects of the story from each lens. .

Have you written a masterpiece yet? I’m sure you are well on your way to a creative breakthrough. I hope you enjoyed this exercise and the opportunity to try your hand at a few different topics.

Feel free to leave your poetry prompted poems in the comments for us to check out together. Also, if you have any prompts you would like to share, leave us a comment and let us know. Nothing is better than coming together as a group and inspiring some great writing!

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127 Creative And Fun Poetry Writing Prompts

Whether you’re writing a poem for your own collection or a significant other, you’re here with one question in mind: “How do I get ideas to write a poem?”

This isn’t some random, “Let’s get this over with” assignment, after all. You want this poem to be worth writing — and worth sharing.

You need the kind of poetry inspiration to help you take your thoughts, memories, and experiences and turn them into something beautiful and memorable.

Fun should be as much a part of the process as feeling.

You’ll find both in this list of 127 poetry prompts.

127 Creative and Fun Poetry Writing Prompts

Make a note of your favorites as you go through this list of poetry prompts . Some will stand out more than others, thanks to your unique perspective and experiences. Jot down some ideas as you go along, and enjoy creating a list of your own to play with.

1. Childhood Home. Describe a particular home you remember from your childhood.

2. Growing Pains. Describe a uniquely painful time of transition.

3. Haiku Challenge. Write a haiku (7 syllables, 5 syllables, 7 syllables) about the perfect morning or evening.

4. The End of Something. Describe an end to a relationship, a job, or something else you remember with regret or satisfaction.

5. Social Misfit. Describe a moment where you felt like the odd one out.

6. Street Signs. Write about a street sign that stood out for you.

7. Statistics. Write about a statistic that surprises you or has personal meaning.

8. Bug’s Eye View. Write from the perspective of an insect at a busy park.

9. Ghostwriter. You wake up to short notes written by a diseased former resident.

10. Insta-ration. Go to a friend’s Instagram and write about a post that stands out.

man and woman discussing book poetry writing prompts

11. Grandma’s House. Write about your grandmother’s house (or how you imagine it).

12. Ice Cold. Write about the sensation of drinking (or wearing) something cold.

13. Beach Walk. Write about a solitary walk on the beach and what you see and hear.

14. Curio . Write about a souvenir you keep visible and what it means for you.

15. How’s the weather? Describe today’s weather and how it’s affecting you.

16. Neighbors. Describe one of your neighbors in a poetic snapshot.

17. First Crush. Describe the first crush you ever had and what it taught you.

18. First Friend. Describe the first real friend you made and the difference they made.

19. Radio. Turn the radio on and write about a song that makes you stop to listen.

20. Fangirl. Describe a favorite character or celebrity crush from a favorite series.

21. How To . Describe a daily process most people rush through or do without thinking.

22. Under 21. Write a poem of fewer than 21 words about whatever comes to mind.

23. Far From Home. Write about your imaginary home planet (not Earth).

24. A Reality Apart. Write about a separate reality you came from and how it differs.

25. Check Your Privilege . Describe an unearned privilege you enjoy that some do not.

26. Prejudice . Describe what you feel when someone treats you as less than human.

27. Chameleon. Describe a time you changed your persona to fit and how it went.

28. Face to Face. Describe a time you came face to face with a nemesis or mentor.

29. Complete . Describe the feeling of finishing a labor of love (or an arduous project).

30. Uncertainty. Describe a moment when you struggled to make a decision.

31. Tea & Sympathy. Describe a difficult time when someone was there for you.

32. The Elements. Describe the four elements and what each represents to you.

33. Written in the Stars. Describe your daily horoscope or your birth chart.

34. Creature Comforts. Describe something that helps you feel calm and comforted.

35. Wandering. Describe a time when you wandered off and got lost.

36. Phobias. Describe a phobia you have and what you would do without it.

37. Homecoming. Describe a return to a place that once felt like home.

38. Hobbies. Describe a favorite hobby and what you love about it.

39. Compare and Contrast two very different people you know.

40. Storytime. Describe a time when someone told you a story that stayed with you.

41. I’d rather… Describe something you don’t want to do and what you’d rather do.

42. Numb. Describe a time when part or all of you felt numb and what it was like.

43. Dreaded Sound. Describe a sound you’ve come to associate with danger or dread.

44. Anticipation. Describe what you feel when you’re waiting for something.

45. Mistaken Identity. Describe someone you mistook for someone you know.

46. Circus Performer. Describe an experience as the circus performer of your choice.

47. Knowing By Touch. Describe a strange feeling you got from touching an object.

48. Off the (Spice) Rack. Compare a spice to something or someone in your life.

49. Unexpected Test. Describe a test you weren’t prepared for and how you did.

50. Mad Scientist. Describe a real or imagined experiment gone horribly wrong.

51. Doppelganger. Describe an imaginary look-alike who shows up and complicates your life.

52. DIY Repairs. Describe something of yours that’s broken and how you might fix it.

53. Amateur Sleuth. Someone you know is dead, and you’re reviewing the suspects.

54. Political News. Write an opinion letter in poem form (rhyming or not).

55. What’s In A Name. Include words for each letter in your name in a poem.

56. Scentsation. Write about memories or thoughts evoked by a scent.

57. Waiting Alone. Write about a moment spent waiting for someone to show up.

58. Make a List. Describe an unusual list (grocery, to-do, etc.) you made or received.

59. White Elephants. Describe an unwanted or useless gift you received.

60. Recipe. Write a recipe in the form of a poem (rhyming or not).

61. After Party. Describe a party scene after all the guests have left.

62. Stranger Than Fiction. Write about an incident that struck you as bizarre.

63. Drive-through. Describe a memorable experience with a fast-food restaurant.

64. Unemployed. Describe the feeling of being laid off or fired from a job.

65. Hired. Describe the feeling of being hired for the job you know you’ll love.

66. Box of Memories. Describe a sealed box (and its contents) from your parents’ attic.

67. Trapped. Describe an experience that made you feel pinned down or trapped.

68. Inner Voice. Describe a time when your inner wisdom led you to a better choice.

69. Medical Advice. Describe a piece of advice you received from a doctor or nurse.

70. Unplanned. Describe an unexpected gift and/or challenge that changed your life.

71. Ode to a First Car. Write an ode to the first car you ever owned or drove.

72. Queen. Write a poem from the perspective of a queen (#BornLikeThis).

73. From the First Taste. Describe a first taste experience that was a revelation to you.

74. First Pet. Describe your first pet or the closest thing you’ve ever had to a pet.

75. Near Miss. Describe a moment when you nearly missed your target and how it felt.

Are you ready to use these poetry writing prompts?

Now that you’ve looked through this list of poem topics, which ones stood out for you?

Make your own shorter list of ideas and keep it handy for inspiration. You could even start a poetry journal and make the first page your list of favorite poetry prompts.

Whatever gets you writing at least a few lines of poetry every day will help you develop your skills. Imagine holding a book of published poetry with your name on it!

Until then, practice getting those thoughts onto the page. Who knows where they’ll lead?

You need the kind of poetry inspiration to help you take your thoughts, memories, and experiences and turn them into something beautiful and memorable. Fun should be as much a part of the process as feeling. You’ll find both in this list of 127 poetry prompts.

130+ Poetry Writing Prompts

Poetry comes in all forms, from seasonal Haiku poems to funny limericks set out to entertain the reader. Whatever type of poem you’re writing, the first struggle is normally inspiration. What do you even start writing a poem about? Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a beginner starting out, here are over 130 poetry writing prompts to help you.

This collection of poetry prompts covers everything from weather , life and even some random funny stuff like giraffes on unicycles or talking apples.

Random Poetry Prompt Generator

Looking for more poetry inspiration? Take part in our daily poetry challenge !

Over 130 Poetry Writing Prompts

Turn that blank page into a beautiful poem of your choice with these prompts:

Pick any object in your room. Now write a poem describing this object.
Look outside your window. Look at the sky – How do you feel when you look at the sky?
Struggling to sleep? Find a paper and pen and write down your feelings.
Write a poem for a friend’s birthday.
Think about a thing you recently learned. Write a poem about how this made you feel.
Write a 7-day poem. This is a poem where you write one line a day until you have a whole poem by the end of the week.
Pick any colour you like. Now write about this colour.
Imagine if fruit could talk. Pick any fruit you like and write a poem about it talking to you.
Write a poem, where each line begins with the letter E.
Fluffy clouds are nice. Write about them.
Sunflowers are known as friendship flowers. Write a poem about sunflowers.
What’s your favourite food? Write about this in your poem.
Imagine you’re going to a tea party.
What are you most scared of? Write a poem about your fears.
Dreams and ambitions are important. Write a poem about your dreams in life.
Write a poem about eating a tasty pizza.
Using the letters that spell ‘Happy’, write an acrostic poem .
Write an ode to your favourite toy.
From the perspective of a cat , write a poem about your life.
Continue this poem: Lights in the night sky…
Keep on trying, is an important message. Write a poem titled, ‘keep on trying’.
Write a poem for your favourite pair of shoes.
There’s a giraffe on a unicycle – write about it.
What do you think of Mondays? Write a poem about them.
Now think about Fridays.
Who is your favourite superhero? Wonder Woman, Batman, Spiderman? Write a poem dedicated to them.
The sound of birds and nothing else.
The most magical unicorn you’ve ever seen.
Weather is a common theme in poems. Pick any weather of your choice, such as rain, snow, a sunny day and then write a poem about it.
Write a poem about writer’s block . How do you feel? Will you ever overcome it?
Don’t cry, my friend. Write a poem about how to stop crying and holding back the tears.
Continue this poem: Lean on me, when…
Write a poem about a dancing pencil in your room.
Cold winter air feeling.
Boredom is the worst. Write about it.
Deep underground there lives…
Write about a recent dream you had.
In the mouth of a whale.
Sitting on a flying carpet.
Looking in the mirror you see…
The smell of breakfast in the morning.
Losing your favourite thing or something important.
A rainbow outside your window.
An alligator wearing a pink tutu skirt.
Dancing with the leaves in Autumn.
The sound of car horns and sirens in a busy city.
Someone who inspires you and why.
From the perspective of a falling leaf.
A bear playing an acoustic guitar.
A sandcastle of your dreams.
Finding a fairy in your garden.
That night before Christmas feeling.
Your favourite cartoon character
In 20 years time, how will the world be?
Your favourite subject at school.
Write a poem using smell only.
Using the sense of taste write a poem.
Something that happened to you today.
About the monster under your bed.
Your favourite fairytale character.
The taste of your favourite sweets.
Lost alone in the desert.
Walking through a forest.
Finding a secret garden.
Meeting a caveman.
Dedication poem to your favourite celebrity.
A talking flower.
Finding a new planet in the solar system.
Your favourite sandwich fillings.
Acrostic poem using the letters of your favourite animal.
A poem dedicated to your mother.
Tiny people living in teacups around your house.
A piece of old furniture in your home.
A flying pig with feathered wings.
Going to Japan on holiday.
Getting stranded on an island.
The contents of a treasure chest you found.
Time travelling to the past.
Ruling the world.
Meeting a group of talking monkeys in the jungle.
Being turned into a vampire.
Creating your own Frankenstein monster.
Sitting in silence.
Being lost in a dark tunnel.
The wild waves of the ocean.
Sitting on a cloud.
The cars passing you by on the highway.
The taste of a juicy orange.
The sound of buzzing bees at a picnic.
A mysterious cat that keeps following you.
The happiest day of your life.
The worst day of your life.
About feeling cold or hot.
The fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
About the first day of school
Saving the environment and recycling.
An endangered species that is going extinct.
Dinosaurs roaming the Earth.
Being stuck in the middle of an alien invasion.
From the perspective of a talking tree.
Waking up in a new place.
About your favourite sports activity.
The smell of fresh air at your local park.
The sound of aliens talking.
A bad dream or nightmare you recently had.
The feeling of being underwater.
The night-time sky.
A newspaper headline you recently read.
The creepy shadows in your room.
The truth that everyone should know.
A poem about daydreaming.
Sitting at the beach on a nice Summer’s day.
Describe your favourite smell.
Being able to fly.
Write a poem about being invisible.
Everything about the colour yellow.
Meeting a pink poodle on your way to school.
Being on stage with everyone looking at you.
About going to the dentist.
Write a poem about Springtime .
Look into a mirror and write a poem about yourself.
Home sweet home – Write a poem about being home.
Describe the city of the future.
Write about the full moon.
Write a poem about the smell of melted cheese.
Describe the feathers of a peacock.
Write an ode to your school bag.
The lucky number seven.
A poem about your favourite board game.
From the perspective of a brain-eating zombie.
Being inside a baking oven.
A thunderstorm inside your bedroom.
Being the outsider in a group of people.
The feeling of pure loneliness.
Having a money tree in your backyard.
The feeling of buying new things.
Keeping a big, dark secret from everyone.
Write a poem about eating lunch at your school’s cafeteria.

Use this huge list of over 130 poetry writing prompts to create your own unlimited collection of poetry. Thes best way to use this list is as daily writing exercises and soon you’ll be on the road to becoming a master of poetry and writing. Feel free to share your poems with our online writing community for feedback or in the comments below.

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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BRYN DONOVAN

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20 Easy Poetry Writing Prompts and Exercises

Although I mostly write fiction now, I started out writing poems. My MFA is even in poetry. I’ve taught beginning poetry workshops at university and also in some fairly unusual settings.

I know a lot of people can use ideas for poems, poetry writing prompts, and inspiration. Even if you write poetry all the time, one of these idea starters might spark your muse or take your writing in a fresh direction. And if you’re a teacher—whether you teach creative writing, English, or grade school—you might be able to adapt one of these for your class!

My favorite thing about poetry is that there aren’t any real rules about how to write a poem. When you find your creative inspiration—whether it’s love, life, or something else—you can just let the words flow. (You can always shape it up later.)

Here are some idea starters, prompts, and exercises that have worked for me before as a poet. You might want to pin or bookmark them for future reference!

20 Easy Poetry Writing Prompts and Exercises #ideas for poems #how to write a poem #classroom #creative writing #idea starters

1. Pick a song on your iPod, phone, or a playlist at random and let it influence you as you quickly write a first draft of a poem.

2. Go to a café, library, or fast food restaurant. Sit where you can see the door. Write a poem about the next person who walks in.

3. You can also do this in a public place where there are a lot of people talking: write a poem based on an overheard conversation.

4. Write a poem about a wild animal. Mary Oliver, who passed away recently and who was such a great talent and inspiration, has written many poems like this, including “The Hermit Crab,” “ The Shark ,” and “ Wild Geese .”

5. Write a poem inspired by a piece of art. (By the way, the word for a poem or literary work inspired by visual art is ekphrasis . Pretty cool, right?)

6. Write a poem with a refrain: a line or a few lines that repeat, like the chorus of a song.

7. This isn’t the easiest poetry-writing exercise…but I’ve gotten some good poems this way!

Set your alarm for two hours earlier than you usually wake up. Put a notebook and pen next to your bed. When you wake up, free-write for about fifteen minutes. (“Free-writing” means “writing down whatever pops into your head, without thinking too hard about it.”) If you woke up in the middle of a dream, use the dream as inspiration; otherwise, just write whatever comes into your head. Go back to sleep. Later, turn your free-writing into a poem.

8. Write a poem that’s an open letter to a whole group of people.

9. Write a poem that’s a set of directions or instructions.

10. Write a poem about a food. The poet Kevin Young has many examples to inspire you, including “Ode to Gumbo”:

11. Write a poem in which every line begins with the same word. You can change that in revision…or maybe you won’t want to.

12. For this one, you’ll need to either write in a notebook or journal, or on your phone. Go to a store that would be a weird place to write a poem—like a convenience store, a department store, or a drugstore—and write a quick poem.

13. Write a poem that focuses on one color. Federico García Lorca’s poem “Somnambulist Ballad,” translated from the Spanish, or Diane Wakoski’s poem “Blue Monday” might inspire you.

14. Pretend you’re a fictional character from a book, movie, or TV show. Write a poem in their voice.

15. Write an acrostic poem. The first letter of each line spells out a word vertically down the left-hand side of the page. Even for serious poets who would never try to publish an acrostic poem, this is a great exercise to get creative juices flowing.

16. lose your eyes, flip through a book, and put your finger on a page. Whatever word you’re pointing at, use it as a poem title and write that poem.

17. Write a poem late at night, by hand, by candlelight.

18. Fill a page with free-writing using your non-dominant hand. This can help you tap into less rational, more creative thought patterns.

19. Write a poem with very long lines. Walt Whitman’s collection Leaves of Grass might inspire you.

20. Write a poem saying goodbye to someone or something. It could be a happy poem, a sad poem, or both.

I hope you enjoyed this list of creative writing exercises and poetry prompts!

Would you like some more ideas? My book 5,000 Writing Prompts has 80 more poetry-writing exercises in addition to the ones on this list, plus hundreds of master plots by fiction genre, dialogue and character prompts, and much more.

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Do you have a method or exercise that inspires you? Let us know in the comments! I’ve said it before, but I learn so much from the comment section, and I always appreciate it. Thanks for reading, and happy writing!

5 JOURNAL EXERCISES FOR SELF-ESTEEM #journal exercises for healing #journal prompts #journal exercises for depression #journal ideas #journal exercises for anxiety #mental health #creativity

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Non-fiction/Poetry ,

100 poetry prompts.

By Savannah Jackson

100 Phenomenal Poetry Prompts To Inspire Your Writing

Poetry is an expressive and compelling form of writing, but it can be hard to know where to begin. Between form, structure, and content, there are lots of factors to consider when you’re deciding how to write a poem . These poetry prompts will help you put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and give you that all-important start.

These prompts are separated into 6 categories containing 15 prompts each, with one miscellaneous section at the end:

Poetic form prompts
Imagination focused prompts
Nature/the outside prompts
Media and objects as inspiration prompts
Sentimental/reflective prompts
Structure prompts
Miscellaneous prompts

Sometimes coming up with a clear, exciting idea can be the hardest part of writing poetry. But luckily we’ve done it for you! So let’s get started with our poetry prompts.

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Poetic Form Prompts

When it comes to writing poetry, deciding on the form you want to use is a great place to start. Whether you’re deciding between writing in free verse or using a regular rhyme pattern; wondering which era of poetry you want to reflect; or what type of poem (acrostic, sestina etc) you want to write; knowing the overall shape of your poem will help you get started. So here are some poetry prompts in the realm of poetic form.

Write an acrostic poem using your name or that of a loved one.
Write an ode to someone or something you love. Start with your favourite thing about them.
Write a sonnet or rewrite one of Shakespeare’s or Petrarch’s. (Sonnets are 14 lines long and are traditionally written in iambic pentameter. But feel free to bend the rules a little; it’s your poem!)
Write a poem in the style of, or in honour of, your favourite poet.
Flick through a poetry book. Find a line which resonates you. Use that as your starting point and carry on from there.
Write a poem that is also a letter. To your past or future self; to a friend; to an emotion; to a loved one who passed away.
Write a poem in a ‘stream of consciousness’ style.
Write in the style of a poetic era which interests you (romantic poetry, metaphysical poetry, Renaissance poetry).
Write a sestina (an unrhyming poem consisting of 6 stanzas of 6 lines and a final 3 line stanza). To help you get started, write about the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning.
What’s your favourite/lucky number? Write a poem consisting of that many lines.
Write a poem listing and connecting mundane objects around you. Consider how you interact with them, and how they interact with each other.
Write a poem without taking your pen off of the paper. Your starting point is your favourite vegetable.
Write a haiku (5 syllables in the first line, 7 syllables in the second line, 5 syllables in the last line). For your starting point, use any word which interests you that begins with the same letter as your surname.
Write a poem using the poetic ‘I’. Write about your day so far (feel free to exaggerate and embellish).
Write a poem personifying whichever emotion you’re predominantly feeling right now.

Imagination Focused Prompts

Poetry is very focused on images, which means you can truly let your imagination run wild when writing it. Be descriptive , have fun, and don’t be afraid to lean into the bizarre. These creative poetry writing prompts will help you craft unique, engaging poems.

Pick a colour. Use the 5 senses to explore and inhabit it.
Keep a notebook by your bed. When you wake up in the morning write down everything you can remember about your dreams. Then write a poem based on your notes.
Write a poem about a mirror.
What was your favourite fairy tale/fable as a child? Write a poem from the perspective of a secondary character (like Little Red Riding Hood’s mum) or the antagonist (like the wolf).
Think of a cliché which irritates you. Write a better version of it (think ‘show, don’t tell’ ), and build your poem from there.
Think about your favourite scent. Write a poem depicting the things and activities it reminds you of (fresh laundry, apple picking, the ocean, blossom on the trees).
Write about the aftermath. Of an argument, a panic attack, crying, a break-up, a dizzy spell, the best news of your life.
If you were an animal what would you be? Write from an animal’s perspective.
There are flowers on a doorstep. Write a poem about them from the perspective of the sender or the recipient (or both). Are they a celebratory gift (for a birthday, promotion, engagement etc)? An apology? A thank you present? Explore.
Think of something bizarre or ridiculous you once saw or heard about (the dream you had about a 20-foot-tall flamingo playing the violin, or your niece’s conversation about the elves who helped her with her homework) and use that as the opening to a poem.
Write a poem which takes place in a time of transition. On the bus home, in the moment between being awake and falling asleep, the day before starting a new job…
If you were to create your own Coat of Arms, what would it look like? Consider what animal, what kind of plant/flower, and what colours etc you would include. Write a poem describing the details and what they represent.
Write a poem about a secret.
Think about a big decision you made. Write a poem exploring what may have happened if you’d chosen differently.
Write a poem about a terrible birthday.

Nature/The Outside Prompts

Classical poetry is what most people think of when it comes to poetry. Lush forests, budding flowers, babbling brooks. Some may think it cliché, but it’s a classic for a reason. And a good reminder to writers to get some fresh air every once in a while.

Use this as a nudge to take a break, go for a walk, and who knows; maybe a half-finished poem will come back with you.

Try these nature and outdoors focused writing prompts for poetry.

Write about the month you’re in now. What comes to mind when you think about it/this season? Draw from memories, the five senses, seasonal activities.
Which element (earth, air) is aligned with your star sign? Write a poem exploring it.
Look out the window or go for a walk and admire the nature around you. What draws your attention? Write about it in as much detail as possible.
Write a poem that starts with a tree. Think about what season you want it to be and thus what it looks like (are there leaves/blossom/bare branches)? Think about where you are in relation to it (sat underneath it, looking at it from a passing car, walking up a hill towards it). See where the poem takes you.
Write about an open window. What kind of building is it in? What’s on either side of it? How high up is it? What does it represent?
People watch as you gaze out of the window, or look at the people across from you as you walk down the street. Make up a life/story for them in your head. Craft a poem around it.
Write about a bonfire or a fireplace. Are you someone who loves the smell of them, and how it lingers on your clothes afterwards? Or someone who hates that the smoke gets in your eyes and you have to get really close to them if you want to escape the surrounding cold?
Write about water. The ocean, drinking a glass of water, washing yourself or the dishes, the rain.
Where’s your favourite place to be? It could anything from the corner of your bedroom, to a small cafe in town, to an African island. Write a poem about it.
Write a poem about the weather.
We always want what we don’t have. Write about the season (autumn, spring etc) you wish you were experiencing now.
Write a poem about being snowed in or having a power outage. Explore the intimacy of being in close quarters with others or trapped alone.
When you’re out and about, pay attention to the words around you. Write a poem based on the tail end of a conversation you overheard, the slogan on someone’s t-shirt, or the curious sign in the shop window.
Think of any old buildings near where you live or grew up. Contemplate who might have occupied them 50/100/200 years ago. Write about them.
Write a poem from the perspective of someone sullen and sitting alone on a park bench.

Media And Objects As Inspiration Prompts

When trying to figure out how to write poetry that is compelling and meaningful, there are many available options. In a technological world, using media as inspiration is one of the simplest solutions. Let your interests converge and use the images/messages/ themes from your favourite forms of media to help you write your next poem.

Write a poem based on the first news article which comes up on your TV/phone/the internet.
Find a picture of you as a child. Write from the perspective of your child self. Look back at the picture from time to time as you write.
Fill in a crossword puzzle or other word game. Write a poem using as many of the words from it as possible.
Write a poem about your favourite book.
Think about an item of clothing or an accessory (the t-shirt that’s worn and well loved, the dress you wore every week when you were in your 30s, the necklace that’s been in your family for generations) that means a lot to you. Write about it. Think about all the places you went and emotions you felt when you wore it. Conversely, personify the object and write a poem about what it experienced with you on those occasions.
Write a poem about or from the perspective of one of your favourite (or least favourite!) characters from a book/TV show/movie.
Listen to a song which you enjoy/resonates with you deeply. Dance, close your eyes; do whatever comes naturally. Once it’s finished, sit down and write whatever comes to mind. Think about a key lyric, how it makes you feel, or what your experience was like the first time you heard it.
Pick a photo you love, your favourite piece of art, or search for interesting images online (volcanoes, Victorian furniture, classical paintings). Write a poem responding to the image.
Watch the trailer for an upcoming film you’re eager to see. Write a poem based on an interesting moment, or in response to it.
Think about a memorable concert, play, or fair you attended as a child. Write as though you’re experiencing it now.
Pick a quote that resonates with you/which you admire. It could be an old adage, something your parents told you, or from a famous writer. Ponder over it for a while, and then write about or in response to it.
What’s the oldest object you own? When did you get it? What does it mean to you? Write about it in detail.
Write a poem set in a school. You can recall your own school experience to help you, entirely make it up, or use a scene from a TV show or film as inspiration.
If you keep a journal, write a poem based on one of your journal entries. Pick an older one (such as the entry you wrote exactly a year ago today) so that you’re a little distanced from what you were experiencing then. Reflect. Contemplate. Use the power of hindsight.
Spend five minutes or so on a social media or gaming app. Jot down any words or images which interest you or evoke some kind of response in you. Use them to help shape your poem.

Sentimental/Reflective Prompts

Poetry writing can be very reflective and personal. When you’re in need of inspiration , sometimes the best place to start is your own experience. Whether you favour poetry that is sentimental and melancholy, or nostalgic and exuberant, these prompts for poetry will help you out.

Write about something that you aren’t ready to say out loud yet.
Write about the age you are now; the stereotypes of your demographic, how comfortable you are with your current age, the joys and sorrows it has bought you.
Think of a really happy day/experience you had in your childhood. Maybe it was when you made a new friend, or read a great book, or went on a trip to a museum. Write a poem describing your unadulterated joy.
Write about the experience of losing something dear to you.
Write about someone who taught you/helped you grow but who wasn’t your teacher, parent, or caregiver.
Think about a memorable birthday you once had. Write a poem about the first one which comes to mind.
Write a poem about a nightmare or a ‘there’s a monster under the bed’ type fear which you had as a child.
Write a poem to/about someone, addressing the things you regret not telling them.
What was your favourite toy/game as child? Write about the devotion you had to it. Are there any parallels between it and your favourite hobbies/passions now?
Write about a small random thing which brings you joy (your favourite cup of tea, your cat running towards the door to meet you when you come home, the smell of a cinnamon scented candle).
Write about a haircut/hairstyle or sense of style you once had that differs from how you present yourself today. Who was that version of you? In which ways are you different now?
Write a poem about a theme or topic which is important to you (animal rights, mental health, education) without explicitly naming it.
What does home mean to you? Write a poem ruminating on it as a concept and a physical space.
Write a poem about a cultural moment which resonated with you (past or present).
Write about a time when you were overlooked. How did you react? Would you respond differently now?

Structure Prompts

The structure of a poem is as important as the words which it contains. And it can be just as meaningful. Starting with the outline of what you want your poem to be like gives you some restrictions so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the myriad of things a poem can be about, while also giving you the freedom to explore your ideas. Here are some creative writing poetry prompts associated with structure.

Open any book. Write a poem based on the first word which draws your attention.
Pick a number between 5 and 100. Write a poem containing that exact number of words.
Make a copy of one of your favourite poems and adjust it to make it your own. Rearrange stanzas/lines, cut out words, change the layout, remove every 5 th word and see what happens.
Using a random name generator- or just flick through a dictionary/thesaurus/book- come up with 5 random words and craft a poem around them.
Write a poem without using the letter e.
Write a poem with each line representing a year of your life (you can do it in calendar years e.g. 1989, 1990, 1991 etc, or in ages e.g. aged 29, 30, 31) and the key memories/emotions/experiences from that time.
If you speak a second language, try writing a poem in that language instead.
Write using a different medium. If you usually type your poems on a computer, use pen and paper instead. Or try writing on a whiteboard, in coloured marker on a huge piece of paper, using scrabble tiles, in chalk on your garden path, or on a typewriter.
Write a poem with nouns which start with the letter of your first name.
Find a poem which you have written but aren’t satisfied with. Read through it, and try and figure out what you don’t like about it. Then, either pick out a line you like and use that as a starting point, or rewrite the poem focusing on its key themes/thesis.
Write a poem using commas as the only form of punctuation.
Write with a friend! Agree on an approximate poem length (for instance, 16 lines). Choose someone to start by sending the first line to the other person. They then send the second line back in response. Continue until your poem is complete.
Write a poem without any full stops.
Pick up a pen and a paper and free write. About your day, your state of mind, anything. Set a timer for 5-15 minutes and keep writing the entire time. Don’t correct your spelling or cross things out. Just. Keep. Writing. After your time is up, go back through and circle/highlight/underline words or phrases which you like. Use one or two of them and begin crafting a poem.
Write a poem structured as a poetic transcript of a story a loved one/relative is telling. Use spacing and punctuation to indicate pauses, and include fillers.

Miscellaneous Prompts

There are so many different types of poetry that it can be hard to define as a writing form. And hard to write prompts for, apparently! So here are some extra prompts which refused to be defined by any one category, perfect for the poet whose imagination cannot be contained.

Write about silence. Is it eerie, peaceful, anxiety provoking? Explore.
When was the last time you danced? Where were you? Were you alone/who were you with? How did you feel? Write about it.
Write a poem about any traditions you have, and whether or not you’re attached to them.
Think of an act of injustice/news story which upsets you. Write about its intricacies and why it angers/saddens you.
Listen. What’s the most prominent sound you hear? Write about it.
Write about a part of the body. Any one! Explore all the things about it which you take for granted and the ways in which it brings you joy (arms for hugging, legs for dancing, eyes for watching the sunset etc).
Write a poem exploring the etymology of your name and your relationship to it.
Do you have any physical injuries? Write a poem about how you got them and, if relevant, how they affect you now.
Write a poem about a coincidence that you experienced.
Write a poem about the gestures/facial expressions you frequently use and what they communicate. How do the people around you use gestures?

Using Poetry Prompts

We hope these poetry prompts give you some great inspiration for new avenues to explore with your writing. Many of these prompts can be used again and again if adapted slightly. You can use them as the basis for a brief freewriting session, to help edit or focus poems you’ve already written, or to help you develop your skills in an area of poetry you’ve been working on (maybe you’re trying to become an expert in all things sonnets). Feel free to adjust these poetry prompts in any way which suits you; we find that a shift in perspective often helps. Happy writing!

About the author

Savannah is a Digital Content Assistant at Jericho Writers. She has a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of Warwick. In her free time, she writes poetry, practices yoga, and reads voraciously.

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A list of 50 inspirational topics for writing a poem

tips for writers: image of books at table

There is no one way to approach writing. The process of finding inspiration and then putting that inspiration into words is a unique and individual experience for each writer. Of course, you don't need prompts to write, but they can help you tap into your creative energy and feel part of a dialogue.

I've put together a list of 50 topics that can be particularly inspiring; thinking about these topics can help jumpstart the creative process.

When looking for inspiration, it's important to explore all aspects of your life and the world around you. By writing about what you know and feel passionately about, you can create poems that are authentic and meaningful to you and your readers. Of course, you can also allow the creative imagination to jump in--let some magic, some humor, some whimsy come into the writing experience.

As a poet and writer, I've learned that the most important skill is to be open to and believe in the value of your own creativity . I've learned from reading others and from having others read and comment on my poems. As I wrote more and was more in alignment with myself, my writing got more understandable, more moving, and more skillful. But it was only when I really let go of the idea of wanting to please others and could listen more deeply to myself that I began to write my most powerful work.

The following list provides a variety of poem topics that can be used for inspiration when writing your next poem:

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50 Poem Topics And Ideas To Help You Write Your Next Poem

The beauty and mystery of nature can be a great source of inspiration for poets. Write about the changing seasons, a particular flower or tree, the stars or moon, the ocean, mountains, or any other aspect of the natural world that speaks to you.

2. Childhood memories

Reflect on a time from your childhood that was particularly special or meaningful to you. Write about the sights, sounds, and smells of that time and what it meant to you then and now.

3. A significant event

Write about an event that has had a major impact on your life, whether positive or negative. Now write a poem describing how this event has changed you.

Express your deepest emotions and write about the power of love in all its forms. This could be a poem about romantic love, the love between friends or family members, or even self-love.

5. Happiness

What makes you happy? What are the small things in life that bring you joy? Write about the moments and people that make you smile and fill your heart with happiness.

6. Friendship

Write about the value of friendship, and how it has positively affected your life. This could also be a poem about saying goodbye to a friend, or remembering a lost friend.

7. Overcoming adversity

We all face challenges in life, but how we deal with them can make us stronger. Write about a time when you faced and overcame a difficult situation. What did you learn from the experience?

8. Gratitude

Express what you are grateful for in your life, and why these things are important to you. If you haven't had a chance to read my interview with Ross Gay , poet, writer and visionary, I highly recommend it. In this interview, we talked about his new book Be Holding, his Book of Delights, Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude, and how to practice attention, gratitude, and care both in poetry and in our difficult but also joy-filled world. Just click here to read it . I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

Image by S. Hermann & F. Richter from Pixabay

How has your life changed over the years? What are some of the things that are different now than they were in the past? Write a poem about the process of change, and how it can be both scary and exciting.

10. Hope

In spite of everything, we all need to believe that better days are ahead. Write a poem about hope, and how it can help us get through tough times. What gives you hope? Describe what hope feels like, and how it helps you in your life.

11. A moment in time

Write about a specific moment that was particularly memorable or significant to you. It could be a happy memory, a sad memory, or even a moment of realization or understanding.

12. A day in the life

Describe a typical day in your life, or write about a specific day that was particularly memorable.

13. Your favorite place

We all have a place that makes us feel safe and happy. Write about your favorite place, and what it is that you love about it. Write about what makes it so special, and how it makes you feel.

14. An object

Write about a particular object that has special meaning to you. It could be something that you use every day, or something that you only see occasionally.

15. A person

Write about someone who has had a major impact on your life, for better or for worse. This could be a family member, friend, teacher, or anyone else who has made a significant impact on you.

16. A memory

Reflect on a specific memory that is significant to you. What does it remind you of? Write a poem celebrating a happy memory, or exploring a painful memory.

17. A feeling

Write about a feeling that is particularly intense or meaningful to you. Describe a specific emotion, and how it feels in your body and mind. No matter what you write about, poetry can be a powerful way to express your thoughts and emotions. So don't be afraid to let your words flow freely and see where they take you.

image of landscape: the earth and sky with clouds

18. The earth

Express your love and appreciation for our planet, and everything that it has to offer. Write about the importance of taking care of it. Write a poem or prose using the phrase "the poetry of the earth." What does that phrase mean to you?

19. A hobby

Write about something you enjoy doing, and why it is so important to you.

20. An experience

Describe a particular experience that was particularly memorable or impactful for you.

21. Your dreams

What are your hopes and dreams for the future? Write about what you want to achieve, and how you plan to get there.

22. Your fears

What are you afraid of, and why? What do these fears mean to you?

Explore the emotions associated with losing something or someone important to you. When you lose something, it's natural to feel pain, grief, and even anger. Writing about these feelings can help you to process them and move on .

24. A time when you felt lost

Describe a time in your life when you felt lost or confused. What helped you find your way again?

25. A time when you felt alone

Writing poetry can be therapeutic, and can help you to express feelings that you may not be able to express in any other way. We all feel alone at times, but it's important to remember that we are never truly alone. Write about a time when you felt alone, and how you coped with it.

26. A time when you felt angry

We all experience a range of emotions, and it's okay to write about the negative ones as well. Use your anger to fuel your words, and write about whatever it is that made you angry.

27. A time when you felt sad

We all experience sadness at times. Write about a time when you felt particularly low, and how you coped with it.

28. Your hopes for the future

29. your favorite thing.

What is your favorite thing in the world? Write about why it is so important to you.

30. A time when you felt happy

What makes you truly happy? Write about a time when you felt this way, and why it was so special to you.

31. Your worst nightmare

Write a poem inspired by your deepest, darkest fears. Write about what this fear means to you, and how it affects your life.

32. A time when you were proud of yourself

We all have moments that we are proud of. Write about a time when you felt this way, and what it was that made you so proud.

33. A time when you laughed

Laughter is one of the best things in life. Write about a time when you laughed until you cried, and what made it so funny.

34. A time when you cried

We all cry at times. Write about a time when you felt particularly sad, and how you coped with it.

35. A time when you were disappointed

A time when you were disappointed: We all have moments when things don't go the way we wanted them to. Write a poem inspired by a time when you were disappointed and had to pick yourself up and keep going.

36. A time when you felt scared

37. a time when you helped someone.

Describe a time when you went out of your way to help someone else. What made you do it, and how did it make you feel?

38. A time when you felt supported

We all need support at times. Write about a time when someone was there for you, and how it made you feel.

39. Your favorite thing about yourself

What do you love about yourself? Write about why you are so special to you. Sometimes we forget why we are amazing! So take a moment and drop out some of your best qualities.

40. Your favorite thing about life

What do you love about life? Write about what makes it so precious to you.

41. Your favorite thing about people

What do you love about people? Write about what makes them so special to you.

42. Your favorite quote

Do you have a favorite quote? Write about what it means to you, and why it is so important to you.

43. A time when you felt proud of someone else

We all feel proud of others at times. Describe a time when you felt this way, and who it was that you were proud of.

44. Your favorite memory

What is your favorite memory? Write about what made it so special to you.

45. A time when you were surprised

We all experience surprise at times. Describe a time when something unexpected happened, and how it made you feel.

46. A time when you made a difference

We all have the ability to make a difference. Write about a time when you did just that, and how it made you feel.

47. A time when you felt loved

We all need love in our lives. Write about a time when you felt particularly loved and supported, and why it meant so much to you.

48. Something that you are passionate about

What are you passionate about? Write about what this passion means to you, and how it drives you.

49. Your hopes for the world

What are your hopes for the world? Write about what you would like to see change, and how you think we can make it happen.

50. Finally, last, but certainly not least, take inspiration from any of your favorite poems.

Reading is one of the best ways to be inspired as a poet and to find poetry topics. Explore my list of 15 morning poems for some inspiration .

These are just a few poem topics to get you started based on my own experiences and what I value most in life. Feel free to choose whichever topic speaks to you, or mix and match several different ones to create your own poem.

If none of these inspire you, think about what matters most to you and write about that. The most important thing is to be true to your own voice and express how you feel in your own words.

So don't be afraid to experiment with different poem styles or subject matter until you find the right fit for you. Whatever you do, have fun with it and let your creativity flow!

I am a member of a group called Toastmasters. One of my favorite parts of our meeting is Table Topics, where a person responds with a 2 minute impromptu response to a speaking prompt, not unlike your fifty topics. Because of the eclectic diversity of our members, it is here where I get to know the soul of a member. I am going to use some of the 50 prompts when I am next, the table topic master.

I'm so glad that you find this helpful and will use it in your Toastmasters group. I agree, it's a nice way to get to know other people.

Can I get interesting poetry prompts for my poetry group

Hi! I was thinking maybe take a topic maybe like a hobby, nature, or something else you find exciting and interesting and compare it to something heartbreaking or sad. Such as mental disorders, break ups, a person you lost, and ect. I have done this before and it really helped me be more inspiring to myself and others. I also think it is very interesting just to compare things!

Thank u so much for helping me out

Poetry can be amazingly emotive. All things considered, artists, similar to the journalists of the best books ever and best book club books, have an approach to communicating feelings that we probably won't have the option to really express.

Yes, I completely agree!

Thanks for this web it really helps me with school to get some ideas for the poem I'm writing.

I'm so glad this was helpful for you!

Verse can be incredibly emotive. Taking everything into account, craftsmen, like the writers of the best books ever and best book club books, have a way to deal with imparting sentiments that we presumably will not have the choice to communicate truly.

Is a great article for all readers because you have described the ideas of poem topics there are many people or students are found to these ideas because they have need to write their poem and assignments and other writing

Thank you for your comments!

This was very helpful

I love love love these poem ideas! Keep up the work!

I'm so glad!

Hello, I am working on a poetry project, and these prompts were really helpful! Thanks for the tips! You're great, just keep doing what you're doing! 🙂

So glad it was helpful!

24 and 25 are basically the same, with feeling lost and feeling alone. other than that it's very helpful.

That’s really interesting: when we feel lost, we often feel alone. And when we feel alone, we often feel lost. But there are also differences between the two experiences, too. And we can feel surrounded by people, but also lost and alone but with a clear sense of direction. I’m glad you found the list helpful!

Great ideas but I feel that it's best to just write from the heart and do it because you want to. not because of a website. I want to say this to all people reading this website: Don't take the advice. Write what comes into mind and make a beautiful word formation. I have written so many of my own poems about how I feel and now I can write poems about anything. Please write what you feel in the moment even if it's sad. Anything makes a great poem so don't worry about what you need to write a poem about. Now I am going to say something to the person who made this website: I see why you made this. For people who don't know what to write about. I think your ideas are great, but it really is better to just write what comes to your mind. I have written over 50 poems and I had no guidance. Please take my advice. I don't ask that you delete the website but that you read this.

Yes, writing from the heart is great. And having prompts can be also helpful–and even help us write more from the hearth. Many tools. There is no one right way 🙂

It helps me a lot…… Thank you 🙏🏻 very much ☺️💯💯

hello. i am non established poet from india.. wanting to write my first ever poem to publish.. you article helped me a lot..

This realy helped

Number 51: A time when you felt free from all the bd things in life

thats what i will now write about

I am what is termed an automatic poet, a visionary compelled to channel by pen messages from within. Spiritual messages from God and Jesus flow through my pen I write the time the poem begins and ends as the lines flow like rushing rivers. I can’t even stop to think, I just write. I’ve never had courses in writing and never know my poems content until it is written. The titles come last. I am learning to be in the moment and not concern myself with what will others think of me when I read to them. I belong to a small writers group that often ask me, where do you come from that you write as you do. Maybe I’m channeling my many poet and author ancestors or maybe I’m just being me. I am the poet Snowflake. Thank you for enlightening me to be more free

Lately, I’ve found myself drawn to the enchanting world of poetry and https://www.nursingpaper.com/msn-writing-service/ The rhythm of words, the dance of metaphors, it all captivates me. Exploring emotions through verses feels like unraveling mysteries of the heart. Whether it’s the gentle sway of nature’s symphony or the turbulence of human emotions, poetry offers a canvas to paint with words. Each stanza is a journey, a glimpse into the soul’s depths. With every line, I discover new ways to express the ineffable. Writing poetry isn’t just a hobby; it’s a passion that ignites my creativity and allows me to weave stories with the magic of language.

One of the primary advantages of assignment writing is the opportunity it provides for students to deepen their subject knowledge. Engaging in write my assignment , analyzing data, and formulating arguments allows students to explore topics in greater detail. By delving into a subject, students gain a comprehensive understanding of its concepts, theories, and practical applications. This process not only facilitates better performance in assignments but also enriches their overall academic journey.

Booking flights at the best prices requires a strategic approach. Start by using fare comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights to compare prices across various airlines. These platforms allow you to see a range of options and find the most affordable flights. Setting up fare alerts can help you get notified when prices drop for your desired routes, ensuring you never miss a deal.

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EveryWriter

A New Community of Writers

50 Poetry Prompts Every Writer Should Try

January 12, 2023 by Richard 1 Comment

Everyone gets stuck in their writing from time to time. On occasion, that little bit of being stuck turns into terrifying writer’s block, and sometimes it’s just a day’s wait, a hiccup in creativity. If you have ever suffered from these, you might need a little push to get going again. The best way to get going in my writing is to start writing. Even if I can’t work on my WIP, any writing, even inspired by a prompt, is helpful. Unstick yourself before you are stuck. This short list of poetry prompts helps. I’m a poet, and I know what it’s like to be unable to come up with an idea. Sometimes you need a little push. We hope this list helps you. Here are a few or 50 prompts to kickstart your poetry.

These prompts are modeled after some famous poems. Every writer should try writing these poems.

The Prompts:

The lost and alone. write about the feeling you had the first time you felt helpless., the love poem. start by writing a love poem that is 100% honest/a bunch of complaints. , tell the world how you like the person more because they are not perfect., the odd metaphor, write a metaphor that uses odd imagery. , image start with a famous painting and writing a poem that tells a story about the scene coming to life. , magical real, have the images in your poem attack you, the poet., short short, write a poem that talks about an ah-ha moment but has 5 lines or less., haiku write a haiku that starts with an image and ends with a lie., the lie. write a poem where the poet is lying to themself. , the go-to. go to a busy place, a coffee shop, a hotel lobby, a train station, or anywhere with lots of people, listen to their conversations, and use lines that they say as lines in your poem. , the camera. make your pen a camera, go to an exciting place, and write vivid descriptions of the site like your pen is a camera. , a recipe for disaster. write a poem about a meaningful relationship as if you are writing down a recipe for that relationship., the cat. write a poem about a cat. i don’t know why; all poets write one of these eventually. , free write, write 20 lines of poetry, doing your best not to let any of them go together or mean anything. , the first line. use the first line of your favorite poem and use it in your poem somewhere. , music inspires; find a genre of music you do not listen to often, listen to it with your eyes closed, and hear as many words as you can. then write a poem that captures the feeling you had listening to the music. , the scary. write a horror poem. , the conversation. write a poem as a letter to your favorite poet. , write a poem about the last sunset you will ever see. , the fly buzz, write a poem about the last thing you see or hear before you die. , the circus, write a poem using something from a circus as a metaphor for someone or some profession today. , the goodbye. write a poem as a goodbye to the old you., the writer. write a poem about poetry. , the place you love; write a poem about the sea, the mountains, the south, some other country, or any place you love. , the lament. use a poem as a plea for change in your life., the quiet. write a poem that you would have to whisper to someone sleeping., the tiger. write a poem about a creature, real or unreal, and you’d be afraid to meet. , the outer space. start in the stars and imagine living 100 years from now. , the copy. mimic the style of your favorite poem but make the subject matter completely different. , the call to action. take a modern-day cause and turn it into a poem that tries to convince people to take action. , the love text. write a poem of text messages. , the time traveler. write a poem to a past generation asking them not to do something terrible that they did or let happen. , the sad. write about your most heartbreaking event., the good day. use your best day as a poem. , no return address; write a poem about being in love with something (cell phone, car, a gadget) that will never love you back but imagine it loves you back in the poem. , the universal. write a poem about coffee or tea. , wrong way write a poem about a time you fought over something but ended up wrong. , the i hate. write a poem about something you hate (football, onions, hockey, people driving slowly in the fast lane), no, see. start by saying something you are afraid that anyone else to ever find out about you. , the small child. a poem about a hope being a small boy who gets beat up every day. , emotion being write about meeting your worst controlled emotion as a different person sitting at a bar. , the fight. write a poem about a fight or argument you had with someone. , the mother write a poem about how people in heaven treat your mother. , the quest. write a poem about going on a medieval quest to find the thing you are missing in your life (like job satisfaction), the ghost. write a poem about a ghost waking you up at night and wanting you to help them. , specific ending. write a poem about the zombie apocalypse. , the challenge. use a famous poetic form sestina, villanelle, sonnet., use to know. write a poem to someone you used to know well but have fallen out of touch with. , the monster. write a poem about a monster that is the hero. , the short stack. write a 10-word memoir poem. , flying. write a poem about flying high above the trees and looking down at your life. .

So here are 50 poetry prompts that inspire you to write. Many of these were taken from famous poems. Suppose you can guess which ones. Leave us a comment below, or if you have something to tell us, a correction, suggestion, or can even leave a poetry prompt. Maybe in our Poetry prompts part 2, we will use them.

About Richard

Richard Everywriter (pen name) has worked for literary magazines and literary websites for the last 25 years. He holds degrees in Writing, Journalism, Technology and Education. Richard has headed many writing workshops and courses, and he has taught writing and literature for the last 20 years.

In writing and publishing he has worked with independent, small, medium and large publishers for years connecting publishers to authors. He has also worked as a journalist and editor in both magazine, newspaper and trade publications as well as in the medical publishing industry. Follow him on Twitter, and check out our Submissions page .

Reader Interactions

[…] Poetry is a form of creative writing that uses language artistically to evoke emotions, ideas, or experiences. Poets employ various literary devices, such as metaphor, simile, alliteration, and rhyme, to create vivid imagery, convey deeper meanings, and explore universal themes. Poetry can take many forms, from traditional structures like sonnets and haikus to free verse and experimental styles. The primary goal of poetry is to express the poet’s unique perspective and evoke an emotional response from the reader. Compelling poetry is often concise yet powerful, using carefully chosen words and phrases to create a lasting impact. Please also see our 50 Poetry Writing Prompts Every Writer should try. […]

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JournalBuddies.com

Journal Buddies Jill | March 29, 2024 April 1, 2023 | Journal Prompts & Writing Ideas

33 Sensational Poem Topics & Poetry Writing Prompts

Poem Topics and Poetry Writing Prompts — As a genre, poetry deals far more heavily in expression and emotion than most other types of writing—which is why it’s a particularly great genre for middle-schoolers to work within. Tweens and young teens face a lot of complex scenarios and confusing emotions, and poetry offers a healthy outlet so that all of those feelings have somewhere to go.

These wonderful poem ideas and poetry writing prompts kick off with a few questions that help to introduce students to the freedom and limitless potential that exists within the genre. Then, students will begin writing their own poems on a wide range of topics—covering everything from global issues to family relationships to the passage of time. Whether or not your poem rhymes makes no difference!

Students should feel free to write any style of poetry they like—and the diverse topics they’ll find within these prompts will encourage them to express themselves honestly and openly as they see fit.

Use these poem topics, poem starters, and poetry writing prompts for middle school students to teach kids about the joy of poems—and the beauty in free expression as they create their own poetry!

Poem Topics and Poetry Writing Prompts

Why do people write poetry?
What types of things can you express in poetry that are hard to express through other forms of writing?
Research several different forms of poetry. How can so many different types of writing all be considered a part of the same genre?
How do you define poetry? What has your experience with poetry been like?
Choose a poem that you like and analyze how the poet uses language in the poem to express emotions and ideas.
Write a poem about your daily routine.
Write a poem about what it’s like to be _____ years old.
Write a poem about an issue that you and your friends struggle with.
Write a poem about a global issue that matters to you.
Write a poem about a quality that defines your family.
Write a poem that defines the concept of “identity.”
Write a poem about relationships and the challenges they can present.
Write a poem about something your parents taught you.
Write a poem about your neighborhood.
Write a poem celebrating your favorite work of art.
Write a poem in honor of a person you admire.
Write a poem about your favorite holiday.
Write a poem about the passage of time.

Write a poem about truth.
Write a poem about responsibility.
Write a poem about freedom.
Write a poem about America.
Write a poem about a time when someone hurt you.
Write a poem describing the feeling of joy.
Write a poem about your dreams for your future.
Write a poem about integrity.
Write a poem about poetry.
Write a poem about something that confuses you.
Write a poem about a historical event.
Write a poem about someone you love.
Write a poem about secrets.
Write a poem about memory.

I hope you enjoyed and found inspiration in this list of poetry prompts and poetry topics. Perhaps you will use them in your next lesson plan to spur the creativity of your writers.

A Lovely Poem Written by a Journal Buddies Reader

On a beautiful morning recently, I received the following email for a young reader of my blog. She wrote:

Hey Jill, You make my life easier. Thank you for what you do. You have no idea how you have improved my life. I took one of your prompts into consideration and ended up writing a poem on Alarm Clocks. And just for fun, I submitted my poem to The Times Of India, to my astonishment, they actually published my poem in their Student Edition paper. I will look forward to writing more of your prompts. Again, thank you. Onwards and Upwards, Nandini

I can tell you that Nandini’s sweet email warmed my heart and brought me great joy.

I was curious, too, to read her poem and asked if she would share it with me.

To my great joy…

She said yes, and with her permission, here it is. Enjoy! (I sure did.)

A Poem…

The atypical artefact.

I wake up to wake you up, always on time, so that you never be late, But you seem quiet dizzy, you tend to shut me up, But my ancestry doesn’t allow me, to just keep quite.

I energize myself again, and buzz with a much louder voice. And this time, I witness a painful thrust, from your hand, And later find myself shattered. But, I guess, life is all about, getting up when you fall.

I pump myself again, and this time I shout, as hell! My shout didn’t go, in vain, you finally woke up! And do you know, when you wake up, happiness fills me, with a sense of accomplishment. And then hibernation, Pops into me so that, I could save energy, for next episode, the other day.

You might think that, I am a bit weird, But that’s because of the treatment I get. Sometimes I don’t need to buzz at all, And some days, I need to, Shout my voice out.

I have seen everything, Your sadness, happiness, Stress, anxiety, disgust, But I cry in melancholy, As I cannot be a part of it. I have seen you not sleep the whole night, And not wake the whole day. One of my salient features, is to go silent, Once you wake up.

I am either placed on a, Dirty dusky table, or, On your complacent cushioned bed.

I am designated as, The Mighty Alarm Clock, which helps you to accomplish your, Morning Rituals.

I give you hope, To start afresh, I embellish your life, I admit, not Mornings though.

When Life Calls You, I Wake You Up.

~ By Nandini

Thanks for reading Nandini’s poem and for visiting my blog. My heart is filled with joy because of her writing talent. I have no doubt she will do wonderful things in this world with her words (and beyond!).

Types of Poetry and Poetry Ideas to Inspire You

Looking for a specific type of poem suggestion or idea? Here are 9 wonderful ones for you:

Haiku. The haiku (or hokku) is an ancient form of Japanese poetry that has become very popular all over the world. …
Free verse. Free verse is a popular style of modern poetry, and as its name suggests there is a fair amount of freedom when it comes to writing a poem like this. …
Sonnet. …
Acrostic. …
Villanelle. …
Limerick. …
Ode. …
Acrostic poem

See this article to learn more about each of these poetry-writing ideas.

Lastly, and above all, I hope these ideas help to inspire some wonderful poetic ideas that help your students refine their creative writing and writing skills in general.

If you enjoyed these Poem Topics and Poetry Writing Prompts , please share them on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Pinterest. I appreciate it!

Sincerely, Jill journalbuddies.com creator and curator

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Discover the 10 most influential poets in history

PS – Click here to discover the 10 most influential poets in history !

Tap to See Prompts 52 Inspiring Poem Journal Ideas & Poetry Prompts 18 Great Topics and Poem Ideas for Kids 27 Amazing Picture Writing Prompts for Kids ------------Start of Om Added --------- @media (min-width: 320px) and (max-width: 767px) { .inside-right-sidebar { display: none !important; } } Search Now Offering You 18,000+ Prompts!

Jill -- Owner and Curator of JournalBuddies.com

Tap to See Prompts 52 Inspiring Poem Journal Ideas & Poetry Prompts 18 Great Topics and Poem Ideas for Kids 27 Amazing Picture Writing Prompts for Kids Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7-8 Grade 9-12 All Ages ------------End of Om Added --------- Tags All Ages , Grade 6 , Grade 7-8 , middle school students , poetry , Poetry Writing , poetry writing prompt , Poetry Writing Prompts , prompts , Prompts for Middle School , students , topics , types of writing , write , writing , writing poems , writing prompts div#postbottom { margin-top: 12px; } Search Now Offering You 18,000+ Prompts!

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For teachers

Creative Writing Prompts for Poetry

Here, you'll find HUNDREDS of creative writing prompts for your poetry. The prompts and ideas on this website intentionally open-ended. Each prompt can be approached in many different ways. Whether you are a traditional poet or an experimental one; whether your poetry is lyrical, humorous, or dark; you can make these prompts work for you. The open-ended design of these prompts also means that you can return to the same prompt again and again, producing a different poem each time. Ready to write some poems?

Free Fiction Writing Course: ENDLESS STORY IDEAS

This free 3-day online writing course will show you how to find new creative writing ideas whenever you need them.

Creative Writing Prompts

1) Write a poem about one or all of the four seasons. (Some ideas for brainstorming: What does the season look, feel, smell like? What memories do you associate with that season?). 2) Write a poem using three of the following words: expensive, lampshade, bruise, convincing. 3) Write a poem about something that happened to someone you know. Write about it as if it had happened to you. 4) Write a poem about your shadow. (Some ideas for brainstorming: How does it change when you move? What does it look like in different kinds of light, in different situations? What would happen if you lost it? Does it have a secret life?) 5) Write a poem using all of the following words: smooth, soothe, work, dark. 6) Write a poem based on a dream you had. Try to reproduce the sensations of the dream. 7) Write a poem based on your belief about life after death... or about what you WISH you believed. 8) Write a poem using all of the following words: snake, honey, thaw. 9) Write a poem from the perspective of a character in a fairy tale. 10) Write a poem using all of the following words: moth, angle, cloth, tangle. 11) Write a poem that tells the story of a specific love affair or marriage. 12) Write a poem in the form of a message or letter to your future self. 13) Write a poem about the color red or another color. (Some ideas for brainstorming: How does the color make you feel? What things do you associate with that color?) 14) Write a poem about a place that frightens you or a place where you feel happy. Try to recreate the feeling of the place. 15) Write a poem using all of the following words: exquisite, visit, glisten. 16) Write a poem about something or someone you lost. 17) Write a poem using all of the following words: dim, hinge, dingy. 19) Write a poem in the form of a lullaby. 20) Write a poem about yourself in which nothing is true. Learn to write great poetry in our online course.

seashells, illustrating page on poetry prompts

So Many More Creative Writing Prompts...

Click here for more poem starters. And now that you're on a roll... Click here even more poetry ideas. Then if that's not enough for you... Click here for still more more poetry prompts. And if you just can't stop writing... Click here for yet MORE poetry topics!

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Exploring 60 Fun 2nd Grade Writing Prompts (With Free Printable PDF)

Ever wondered how to keep second graders engaged and excited about writing? In classrooms and homes alike, inspiring young writers can be both a joy and a challenge. That’s where a rich array of 2nd grade writing prompts comes into play. These prompts aren’t just tools; they’re gateways to unlocking creativity and honing essential skills. In this article, we explore 60 captivating prompts that span opinion pieces, narrative adventures, fun exercises, creative expressions, and intriguing research topics. Join us as we discover how these prompts can nurture a love for writing while fostering confidence and imagination in young learners.

At WuKong ELA , we offer Free Printable 2nd Grade Writing Prompts PDF and a variety of online reading worksheets in PDF format that parents and children can easily download and print. Explore our collection of free PDF reading materials today!

Empower your child’s critical thinking with resh, modern English reading and writing courses!

Suitable for global learners in grades 3-6.

Discover 60 Engaging 2nd Grade Writing Prompts Across Various Genres

Explore a diverse array of 2nd grade writing prompts spanning opinion, narrative, fun, creative, and research-based topics. These prompts are designed to inspire creativity, improve storytelling, and foster critical thinking skills in young learners, making writing an enjoyable and educational experience.

Opinion Writing Prompts for 2nd Grade

Encourage young writers to express their viewpoints with these engaging opinion writing prompts for 2nd grade. These prompts help children develop persuasive skills while exploring topics relevant to their lives and interests.

Should students have longer recess time? Explain why or why not.
Do you think it’s important for kids to learn how to swim? Explain your opinion.
Should students be allowed to have pets in the classroom? Give reasons for your viewpoint.
Is it better to read books or watch movies? Support your opinion with examples.
Should homework be banned? Provide reasons for your viewpoint.
Do you think it’s better to be the oldest or youngest in your family? Explain your preference.
Should students have to wear uniforms to school? Give reasons for your opinion.
Is it important to eat vegetables every day? Explain why or why not.
Should kids have to do chores at home? Give reasons for your opinion.
Do you think it’s better to have a big birthday party or a small gathering? Explain your preference.
Should children be allowed to have cell phones? Give reasons for your viewpoint.
Is it important to be kind to others? Explain why kindness matters.

Narrative Writing Prompts for 2nd Grade

Encourage imaginative storytelling with these narrative writing prompts for 2nd grade. These prompts are designed to inspire young writers to create engaging stories, develop characters, and explore different settings.

Write a story about a magical adventure you had with your best friend.
Describe a time when you discovered something amazing.
Imagine you found a secret door in your house. Write about where it leads.
Create a story about a talking animal you met in the forest.
Write about a day when everything went wrong but turned out right in the end.
Describe a special birthday party you attended or had.
Write a story about a time you helped someone in need.
Imagine you could travel back in time to any historical event. Write about your experience.
Create a story about a superhero you invent. What powers do they have?
Write about a day when you woke up to find it was snowing indoors.
Describe a pretend tea party with your favorite toys.
Write a story about a mystery you solved with your friends.

Fun Writing Prompts for 2nd Grade

Engage young imaginations with these fun writing prompts for 2nd grade. These prompts are designed to inspire creativity, laughter, and imaginative storytelling.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Describe how you would use it.
Invent a new ice cream flavor. What would it taste like, and what would you name it?
Write about your favorite joke. Why do you think it’s so funny?
Describe a silly dream you had recently.
If you could be any animal for a day, which one would you choose and why?
Write about a day when you woke up to find your toys had come to life.
Invent a new holiday. What would people do to celebrate it?
Describe a time when you had to pretend to be a superhero to help someone.
Write about a pretend adventure in a jungle or on a desert island.
Create a story about what happens when you discover a hidden treasure in your backyard.
If you could live inside a video game, which one would you choose and why?
Write a story about your favorite imaginary friend and their adventures.

Creative Writing Prompts for 2nd Grade

Encourage imaginative expression with these creative writing prompts for 2nd grade. These prompts are designed to spark creativity, inspire originality, and nurture storytelling skills in young writers.

Invent a new planet. Describe what it looks like and who lives there.
Write a poem about your favorite place in the whole world.
Create a story about a robot who learns how to feel emotions.
Imagine you could talk to plants. Write a conversation you might have with a tree.
Write about a day when everyone in the world spoke a different language.
Invent a new toy that becomes incredibly popular. Describe how it works and why kids love it.
Create a story about a magical book that transports you to different places.
Write a letter to your future self. What do you hope to accomplish by the time you’re older?
Imagine you discovered a hidden world inside your closet. Write about your adventures there.
Create a story about a friendly monster who lives under your bed.
Write about a day when you woke up to find your favorite cartoon character in your house.
Invent a new sport that everyone loves to play. Describe the rules and how it became popular.

Research Writing Prompts for 2nd Grade

Encourage exploration and learning with these research writing prompts for 2nd grade. These prompts are designed to engage young learners in investigating various topics, developing research skills, and organizing information effectively.

Choose an animal you find interesting. Write about its habitat, diet, and behavior.
Research your favorite sport. Write about its history and rules.
Investigate a famous inventor. Write about their inventions and why they are important.
Choose a country you want to learn more about. Write about its culture and traditions.
Research a historical event. Write about what happened and why it’s significant.
Explore how plants grow. Write about the stages of a plant’s life cycle.
Research a type of weather phenomenon, such as thunderstorms or tornadoes. Write about how it forms and its impact.
Investigate a famous landmark. Write about its history and why people visit it.
Choose a type of dinosaur. Write about its characteristics and when it lived.
Research a type of vehicle, such as airplanes or trains. Write about how it works and its uses.
Explore the life of a famous explorer. Write about their expeditions and discoveries.
Investigate the solar system. Write about the planets and their unique features.

Discover the WuKong Advanced English Reading and Writing Program

Their Advanced English Reading and Writing Program goes beyond traditional language courses, offering a transformative experience aimed at fostering a deep appreciation for reading and cultivating exceptional writing abilities in children. Here’s what makes their program exceptional for developing 2nd grade writing prompts:

Course Highlights:

Recommended Age: Geared towards students in grades 2-6, ensuring age-appropriate content and challenges.
Duration and Frequency: Sessions lasting between 45 to 90 minutes, held regularly for consistent progress.
Class Size: Small groups of 2-8 students ensure personalized attention and foster collaboration.
English (ELA) Resources : Access to comprehensive materials to enhance English Language Arts skills.

Course Benefits:

Customized Learning: Each course is meticulously designed to meet individual learning needs, focusing on mastering effective reading and writing techniques.
Cultural Enrichment: Encourages critical thinking and creativity through diverse literary explorations.
Inquiry-Based Approach: Project-based tasks foster independent thinking and problem-solving skills.
Comprehensive Reading Guidance: Equips students with analytical tools to assess reading materials across various dimensions.
Structured Writing Methodology: Guides students through a systematic seven-step process from brainstorming to final editing.
Expert Instruction: Led by seasoned European and American educators, providing authentic language instruction to overcome challenges in English learning.

FAQs for 2nd grade writing prompts

Q1. what are 2nd grade writing prompts .

2nd grade writing prompts are engaging topics or questions designed to inspire young writers, encouraging creativity and expression.

Q2. How do 2nd grade writing prompts benefit students?

These prompts enhance critical thinking, vocabulary development, and storytelling skills, fostering confidence and enjoyment in writing.

Q3. How can parents support their child using 2nd grade writing prompts?

Parents can encourage their child by discussing prompts, providing writing materials, and celebrating their creative efforts.

Conclusion:

In this article, we shared 60 fun and engaging 2nd grade writing prompts to help young writers develop their skills and spark their creativity. These prompts cover opinion, narrative, fun, creative, and research writing, offering a variety of ways to inspire and motivate second graders. To further support your child’s learning, consider the WuKong Advanced English Reading and Writing Program. This program provides tailored courses, valuable resources, and expert guidance to help kids improve their reading and writing abilities.

Elaina Zetts, a teacher from League City, Texas, majoring in Elementary Education, has a master’s degree in K-12 Literacy. Serves as an ELA teacher in a public school in Friendswood, Texas. Has taught ELA for 15 years and is good at teaching elementary aged students how to read, write and spell. Teh teaching profession is her heart and soul and wat brings her the most joy in life. She hopes dat her love for Literacy shines through and that children grow in their love for reading and writing while in her classes.

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The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Creative Writing

June 20, 2024 by Avery Devereaux

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been making significant strides across various industries, and the field of literature is no exception. From generating plot ideas to composing entire novels, AI is transforming the landscape of creative writing.

AI’s role in creative writing has evolved significantly over the past decade. Initially, AI tools were limited to grammar checking and simple text predictions.

However, advancements in natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning have enabled AI to undertake more complex tasks, such as generating poetry, scripting dialogues, and even writing entire books.

The AI statistics report highlights that the global AI market is projected to reach $267 billion by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33.2%.

AI-Powered Writing Tools

1. ai story generators.

AI story generators like OpenAI’s GPT-3 and AI Dungeon are capable of creating coherent and engaging narratives based on user inputs. These tools use vast datasets to understand language patterns and generate human-like text.

Capabilities : GPT-3, for instance, has 175 billion parameters, enabling it to produce highly sophisticated and contextually relevant content.
Usage Statistics : As of 2023, GPT-3 has been used to generate over 4.5 billion words per day across various applications.

2. AI in Poetry

AI-driven poetry generators, such as Google’s Verse by Verse, assist poets by suggesting lines and verses that maintain the desired style and tone. These tools analyze vast collections of poetry to mimic the styles of famous poets.

User Adoption : Approximately 25% of contemporary poets have experimented with AI tools to enhance their creative process.
Quality : Studies show that 65% of readers cannot distinguish between AI-generated poetry and human-written poetry.

3. AI for Editing and Proofreading

AI-powered editing tools like Grammarly and ProWritingAid are now integral to the writing process. These tools not only correct grammar and spelling errors but also provide stylistic suggestions to improve readability.

Efficiency : AI editing tools can reduce the time spent on proofreading by up to 50%.
Market Penetration : Over 30 million people use Grammarly daily, indicating widespread adoption of AI in editing.

Benefits of AI in Creative Writing

1. enhanced creativity.

AI tools serve as creative collaborators, offering writers new perspectives and ideas. This symbiotic relationship allows writers to explore uncharted territories in their narratives.

2. Increased Productivity

AI can automate repetitive tasks such as editing and proofreading, enabling writers to focus more on the creative aspects of writing. This results in higher productivity and faster completion of writing projects.

3. Democratization of Writing

AI makes writing more accessible to non-professional writers by providing tools that assist with grammar, style, and structure. This democratization allows more people to express their ideas and stories.

4. Personalized Writing Assistance

AI can adapt to individual writing styles, offering personalized suggestions and improvements. This level of customization helps writers maintain their unique voice while enhancing the overall quality of their work.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

1. authorship and originality.

One of the primary concerns with AI-generated content is the question of authorship. Who owns the rights to a piece created by AI? Moreover, the originality of AI-generated content can be questionable, as it often draws from existing works.

Legal Implications : There is an ongoing debate about intellectual property rights related to AI-generated content, with some arguing that AI cannot hold copyrights.

2. Quality and Coherence

While AI can produce impressive content, it is not infallible. There are instances where AI-generated text may lack coherence or fail to capture the nuances of human emotion and experience.

Reader Perception : Surveys indicate that 55% of readers can identify AI-generated content, citing a lack of emotional depth as a key differentiator.

3. Ethical Use

The ethical use of AI in creative writing is another major concern. There is potential for misuse, such as generating fake news or deep fake content, which can have serious societal implications.

Regulation : Industry experts advocate for stricter regulations to ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly in content creation.

Future Trends in AI and Creative Writing

1. collaborative writing platforms.

The future of AI in creative writing lies in collaboration. Platforms that allow human writers to work alongside AI are expected to become more prevalent, fostering a new era of co-authorship.

2. Advanced Personalization

AI will continue to improve in understanding individual writing styles and preferences, leading to even more personalized writing assistance. This advancement will help writers refine their craft while maintaining their unique voice.

3. Multimodal AI

Future AI systems will likely integrate multiple modalities, such as text, audio, and video, to create more immersive and interactive storytelling experiences. This will revolutionize how stories are told and consumed.

4. Ethical AI Development

As AI becomes more integrated into creative processes, there will be a greater emphasis on developing ethical AI . This includes ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI algorithms.

AI is undoubtedly transforming the landscape of creative writing, offering new tools and possibilities for writers.

While there are challenges and ethical considerations to address, the benefits of AI in enhancing creativity, productivity, and accessibility are significant.

As the technology continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how AI and human writers collaborate to push the boundaries of literature.

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101 Poetry Prompts & Creative Ideas for Writing Poems
29. Circus Performers: Write your poetry inspired by a circus performer - a trapeze artist, the clowns, the ringmaster, the animal trainers, etc. 30. Riding on the Bus: Write a poem based on a time you've traveled by bus - whether a school bus, around town, or a long distance trip to visit a certain destination. 31.
132 Best Poetry Prompts and Ideas to Spark Creativity
Poetry is almost synonymous with people's emotional footprint. These 10 prompts cover a wide range of human emotions, so dive in deep! Write a poem about a moment when you felt overwhelmingly joyful. Try to convey this emotion by depicting the setting, the time, and what prompted this strong feeling of happiness and joy.
111+ Poetry Prompts To Get Your Creative Juices Flowing
A long list of poetry prompts. 1. Write a poem from the perspective of a leaf changing colors in autumn. 2. Pen a love letter to the moon, detailing your admiration and nightly observations. 3. Describe the sensation of listening to your favorite song in a language you don't understand. 4.
Best Poetry Writing Prompts of 2023
Write an acrostic poem using the word H-O-M-E. Write a poem based on your happiest memory. Write a haiku about love. Pick a random number. Write a poem with that many stanzas. Write a poem with zero punctuation. Listen to your current surroundings. Write a poem based on what you hear. Write a poem about fall.
100 Poetry Prompts
100 poetry prompts to motivate and inspire you. My first love in writing was poetry. In my early teens, writing poetry was a creative and cathartic way to explore my ideas and vent my emotions. Writing poetry was accessible — all I needed was some paper and a pen. It didn't even require a huge investment of time.
50 Poetry Prompts to Help Jumpstart Your Creativity
46. Write a poem that starts with the first line of your favorite movie. 47. Write a poem that incorporates the color blue. 48. Write about your favorite artist or work of art. 49. Write a poem about injustice. 50. Write about gratitude. Poem Ideas. Poetry prompts can be a great way to jumpstart your creativity and help you dive in to writing a ...
22 Poetry Prompts to Help You Write Your Next Great Poem
Happy writing: 1. Choose one of your five senses. Write a poem that focuses on your chosen sense. 2. Write a poem inspired by a color. 3. Write a poem based on something that happened to you this week. It could be something life-changing or something seemingly ordinary.
127 Creative Poetry Writing Prompts
127 Creative and Fun Poetry Writing Prompts . Make a note of your favorites as you go through this list of poetry prompts. Some will stand out more than others, thanks to your unique perspective and experiences. Jot down some ideas as you go along, and enjoy creating a list of your own to play with. ...
130+ Poetry Writing Prompts
Write a poem about Springtime. Look into a mirror and write a poem about yourself. Home sweet home - Write a poem about being home. Describe the city of the future. Write about the full moon. Write a poem about the smell of melted cheese. Describe the feathers of a peacock. Write an ode to your school bag.
A Selection of Poetry Prompts from 1200 Creative Writing Prompts
25 Poetry Prompts from 1200 Creative Writing Prompts. Write a descriptive poem about a banana split: three scoops of ice cream with banana halves on either side and a big mound of whipped cream on top laced with chocolate sauce and sprinkled with chopped nuts—all topped off with a plump red cherry. Use all of the following words in a poem ...
41 Poetry Prompts to Inspire Fresh, Vivid Writing
Falling into poetry prompts can help break through inspiration you didn't even know you had. Explore vivid prompts to help take your writing to the next level.
20 Easy Poetry Writing Prompts and Exercises
Whatever word you're pointing at, use it as a poem title and write that poem. 17. Write a poem late at night, by hand, by candlelight. 18. Fill a page with free-writing using your non-dominant hand. This can help you tap into less rational, more creative thought patterns. 19.
Poetry Prompts
Poetry Prompts. Robert Lee Brewer offers fun and inspirational prompts every week—and every day in April!—to get you started writing a poem, whether you're an experienced poet looking for new ideas, or trying poetry for the first time. Combine these prompts with our List of 100 Poetic Forms to really get your creative juices flowing.
2,000+ Writing Prompts and Ideas from Poets & Writers
Check out our Writing Prompts for Beginners. Tuesdays: Poetry prompts. Wednesdays: Fiction prompts. Thursdays: Creative nonfiction prompts. Get immediate access to more than 2,000 writing prompts with the tool below: Choose a genre: <Any>. Items/Page: 25.
100 Poetry Prompts
Imagination Focused Prompts . Poetry is very focused on images, which means you can truly let your imagination run wild when writing it. Be descriptive, have fun, and don't be afraid to lean into the bizarre. These creative poetry writing prompts will help you craft unique, engaging poems. Pick a colour. Use the 5 senses to explore and ...
A list of 50 inspirational topics for writing a poem
Write about the moments and people that make you smile and fill your heart with happiness. 6. Friendship. Write about the value of friendship, and how it has positively affected your life. This could also be a poem about saying goodbye to a friend, or remembering a lost friend. 7. Overcoming adversity.
50 Poetry Prompts Every Writer Should Try
Poetry is a form of creative writing that uses language artistically to evoke emotions, ideas, or experiences. Poets employ various literary devices, such as metaphor, simile, alliteration, and rhyme, to create vivid imagery, convey deeper meanings, and explore universal themes.
An Ocean of 199+ Poetry Ideas To Help You Write Your Next Poem
Creative writing ideas and creative writing prompts can be fantastic sources of inspiration for poetry writing. The boundary between writing a story and a poem often blurs, and many ideas can be expressed in other forms.
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Creative Writers; Showing 1 to 12 of 98 Articles Learning Prompt. Standing Outside Myself: The Black Ecstatic. By Kameryn Alexa Carter June 10, 2024. I was grateful to devise and facilitate a workshop called "Standing Outside Myself: The Black Ecstatic." ... —James BaldwinWriting poems can be the articulation of a kind of listening. We ...
33 Sensational Poem Topics & Poetry Writing Prompts
Poem Topics and Poetry Writing Prompts — As a genre, poetry deals far more heavily in expression and emotion than most other types of writing—which is why it's a particularly great genre for middle-schoolers to work within.Tweens and young teens face a lot of complex scenarios and confusing emotions, and poetry offers a healthy outlet so that all of those feelings have somewhere to go.
101 Poem Ideas to Spark Your Creativity
Whether you want to write poems for close friends, explore the world through your poetry, or create published poems, these poetry prompts, writing ideas, and creative writing ideas will help you embark on an incredible journey. Let's dive into the realm where words come alive and inspiration blossoms like a flower in the spring. Poem Ideas. 1.
Creative Writing Prompts and Poem Starters
Creative Writing Prompts for Poetry. Here, you'll find HUNDREDS of creative writing prompts for your poetry. The prompts and ideas on this website intentionally open-ended. Each prompt can be approached in many different ways. Whether you are a traditional poet or an experimental one; whether your poetry is lyrical, humorous, or dark; you can ...
Writing Prompts for Beginners
Whether you are new to creative writing or simply looking to refresh your practice, writing prompts are a great way to generate new ideas. Poets & Writers has nearly 2,000 writing prompts for poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction in the free archive at The Time Is Now. Below we've chosen a handful of prompts that are perfect for creative writers just starting out, and for teachers and ...
Wednesday Poetry Prompts: 700
Write a poem every single day of the year with Robert Lee Brewer's Poem-a-Day: 365 Poetry Writing Prompts for a Year of Poeming. After sharing more than a thousand prompts and prompting thousands of poems for more than a decade, Brewer picked 365 of his favorite poetry prompts here. Click to continue. ***** Here's my attempt at a Special Day ...
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Writing.Com is the online community for creative writing, fiction writing, story writing, poetry writing, writing contests, writing portfolios, writing help, and writing writers.
Exploring 60 Fun 2nd Grade Writing Prompts (With Free Printable PDF)
Conclusion: In this article, we shared 60 fun and engaging 2nd grade writing prompts to help young writers develop their skills and spark their creativity. These prompts cover opinion, narrative, fun, creative, and research writing, offering a variety of ways to inspire and motivate second graders. To further support your child's learning ...
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Creative Writing
2. Increased Productivity. AI can automate repetitive tasks such as editing and proofreading, enabling writers to focus more on the creative aspects of writing. This results in higher productivity and faster completion of writing projects. 3. Democratization of Writing.
Performance Poetry & Comics and Graphic Narrative Intensives: Closing
Interlochen Center for the Arts 4000 J Maddy PKWY Interlochen, MI 49643. Main Switchboard: 231.276.7200 Campus Safety: 231.276.7575
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Introducing Apple Intelligence for iPhone, iPad, and Mac
Using the Compose tool in Pages, a user enters a prompt about writing a bedtime story about a 6-year-old named Annie who's great at solving riddles. Using the Compose tool in Pages, a user accesses ChatGPT image tools to generate an image. The menu shows a range of styles suggested by ChatGPT: "Add a magical impressionist image," "Add a ...

101 Poetry Prompts & Ideas for Writing Poems

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Ideas for poems about different types of emotions

Ideas for poems about love

Ideas for poems about life in general

Ideas for poems about death

Ideas for poems about philosophy

Ideas for poems about everyday things

Ideas for poems about time

Ideas for poems about different forms of art

Ideas for poems about historical events

Ideas for poems about religion and spirituality

Ideas for poems about family life

Ideas for poems about nature and travelling

Ideas for poems with supernatural elements

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BEST POETRY WRITING PROMPTS

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Choose a title from our Book Title Generator. Write a poem inspired by that title.

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Write a poem about loss.

Write a poem about growing old.

Write a poem about your favorite part of nature.

Write a poem based on your favorite childhood memory.

Look around you. Write a poem based on what you see.

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22 Poetry Prompts to Help You Write Your Next Great Poem

1. Choose one of your five senses. Write a poem that focuses on your chosen sense.

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A list of 50 inspirational topics for writing a poem

50 Poem Topics And Ideas To Help You Write Your Next Poem