creative writing poem ideas

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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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.

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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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Explore more writing prompt ideas:

Adults Writing Prompts ⭢

Adventure Writing Prompts ⭢

Angst Writing Prompts ⭢

Character Writing Prompts ⭢

Christmas Writing Prompts ⭢

Dark Writing Prompts ⭢

Dialogue Writing Prompts ⭢

Dramatic Writing Prompts ⭢

Dystopian Writing Prompts ⭢

Fall Writing Prompts ⭢

Fantasy Writing Prompts ⭢

Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Fluff Writing Prompts ⭢

Funny Writing Prompts ⭢

Halloween Writing Prompts ⭢

High School Writing Prompts ⭢

Historical Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Holiday Writing Prompts ⭢

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Kids Writing Prompts ⭢

Middle School Writing Prompts ⭢

Mystery Writing Prompts ⭢

Narrative Writing Prompts ⭢

Nonfiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Novel Writing Prompts ⭢

Poetry Writing Prompts ⭢

Romance Writing Prompts ⭢

Sad Writing Prompts ⭢

Science Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Short Story Writing Prompts ⭢

Spring Writing Prompts ⭢

Summer Writing Prompts ⭢

Teens Writing Prompts ⭢

Thanksgiving Writing Prompts ⭢

Thriller and Suspense Writing Prompts ⭢

Valentine's Day Writing Prompts ⭢

Vampire Writing Prompts ⭢

Winter Writing Prompts ⭢

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Nadia Colburn

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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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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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Poetry Writing Tips

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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A Selection of Poetry Prompts from 1200 Creative Writing Prompts

by Melissa Donovan | May 24, 2022 | Poetry Prompts | 15 comments

Poetry prompts from 1200 Creative Writing Prompts.

Today’s poetry prompts come from my book, 1200 Creative Writing Prompts , which is jam-packed with ideas and inspiration for writers and includes fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction writing prompts.

Some of the poetry prompts in the book ask you to use a list of specific words in a poem. Some give you a topic to write about. Some ask you to draw on your life experience. Some give you images to use as inspiration for a poem.

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: tapestry, sings, eye, din, collide, slippery, fantasy, casting, chameleon, lives.
Write a poem about somebody who betrayed you, or write a poem about betrayal.
Write a poem using the following image: a smashed flower on the sidewalk.
The hallmark of great poetry is imagery. A truly compelling poem paints a picture and invites the reader into a vivid scene. Choose an image or scene from one of your favorite poems and write a poem of your own based on that image.
Use all of the following words in a poem: scythe, fresh, bloody, dainty, screaming, deadly, discovery, harrowing.
Write a poem about one (or both) of your parents. It could be a tribute poem, but it doesn’t have to be.
Write a poem using the following images: a “no smoking” sign and a pair of fishnet stockings.
You’re feeling under the weather, so you put the teapot on. Soon it starts to scream. Write a poem about the sound of a whistling teapot.
Use all of the following words in a poem: stem, canvas, grain, ground, leather, furrow.
The beach, the mountains, the vast sea, and deep space are all great for tributary poems about places. Write about the city you love, the town you call home, or your favorite vacation destination.
Write a poem using the following image: a pair of baby shoes.
Some poems are more than just poems. They tell stories. Try writing a poem that is also a story, a play, or an essay.
Use all of the following words in a poem: elegant, hips, fern, listless, twisting, bind, surprise.
Write a poem about the first time you experienced something.
Write a poem using the following image: a torn photograph.
Although holidays have deeper meanings, we like to truss them up with a lot of decadence and nostalgia. All that food! All those presents! Oh, what fun it is…Write a poem about the holidays.
Use all of the following words in a poem: burnt, spacious, metropolis, pacing, fiery, cannon.
Write a poem about an inanimate object. You can write a silly poem about how much you admire your toaster or you can write a serious piece declaring the magnificence of a book.
Write a poem using the following image: a small rowboat tied to a pier, bobbing in the water under darkening skies.
Now that time has healed the wounds, write a poem to someone who broke your heart long ago.
Use all of the following words in a poem: deadline, boom, children, shallow, dirt, creep, instigate.
Write a poem about streets, highways, and bridges.
Write a poem using the following images: a broken bottle and a guitar pick.
Write a poem about the smell of cheesy, doughy, saucy, spicy pizza baking in the oven.

Did any of these poetry prompts inspire you to write? Which one stoked your creative flames? Did you write a poem, or were you inspired to write something else? Where do you get your best creative inspiration? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment, and keep writing!

15 Comments

This is very helpfull

Thanks, Linda!

What’s the easie#t way for me to get my poems published? I’m 13 and would really like to see my works immortalized.

Why are you looking for the easiest way? The easiest is not always the best.

That would almost certainly be starting a blog and publishing your poems there. For the record, I think this is a fine way to publish poetry, depending on your goals. And the internet certainly immortalizes everything.

Use all of the following words in a poem: tapestry, sings, eye, din, collide, slippery, fantasy, casting, chameleon, lives.Use all of the following words in a poem: tapestry, sings, eye, din, collide, slippery, fantasy, casting, chameleon, lives.

that was prompt #2. this is my poem.

the world is nothing but a tapestry spun with lives. The world sings out calling, calling to everyone to join and help and make this one big cloth that changes color a chameleon cloth the casting is made from happiness but oh It’s just so slippery but hang on just as tight as your fantasy the life you’re living now. Your living in the eye of god It’s not as din as you might think You collide with oh so much you give chances and take them too And that’s what life is all about.

Anushka Joardar, age 11

What a lovely poem, remarkable for your age. Keep writing, Anushka!

I have just finished a novella of poetry and am looking to publish after I flesh out the last few details, but I have found that poetry can be harder to market. Do you have any suggestions there?

Hi Mackenzie. I’m not sure what a “novella of poetry” is. A novella is a short novel (a fictional story). Poetry is usually published in collections. Do you, perhaps, mean a chapbook of poetry?

Writing Forward is about the craft of writing rather than marketing, so I’m afraid we don’t have any marketing tips here. But there are other resources online that focus on marketing.

I have written poems and think writing prompts are very helpful. Here is one of my pieces: “Storms” The ground is shaking, splitting the earth The way my headache splits, unleashing the monsters of my mind and letting them fester. Rain soaks my skin The way tears once soaked my cheeks With salt and sadness. Now I feel nothing. The ground still splits The rain still pours. The world is moving and I am standing still, Unable to move with it.

I would LOVE advice.

Hi Lexi. Thanks for sharing your poem with us. I’m guessing that “12” is your age? If so, then this is impressive work for someone so young. This isn’t a forum for feedback and advice, but you’ll find plenty of articles and books to guide you in your writing journey. I wish you the best of luck.

Mother Nature and her kingdom are flourishing Her kingdom provides humans nourishing Her love for her creation cannot be tamed All of the land belongs to her, it has been named Nature’s songs can be heard through the birds They can’t be explained by words Her flowers sprinkle fresh smells The animals all have their stories to tell

She let us borrow her kingdom while it lasts We were novice to her kingdom in the past Now, what have we done to her? We have torn her dress Mother Nature has become less Her kingdom is destroyed Animals have fallen in our cunning ploys We have become doltish to her All her once gardens, are now a site of destruction People have brought ructions to her calm palace We have left her broken After she gave us her life, as a token! Please notify me if there are any errors. After all, I’m pretty young!

Thank you for sharing your poem with us, Ashley. It’s lovely.

really impressive

The Day We Met. A Poem by Ainsley, Age 13 (Almost 14) Prompt Number: 3, Getting Betrayed

Note: Hello! So, this poem is about a close friend I had. But we met online. We never met in person. We planned it all out. Whose house to go to, etc. She lives in New York, While I live In Washington. Then, well, she turned toxic. She was my first ever Internet Friend, and my first crush, as well as the first person who ‘kinda’ asked me out. She was also the only one I could text and or stay on a call with for hours on end and never get bored. We both love ukulele, writing songs, singing, Gacha life, Moriah Elizabeth, singing, roleplaying, videos games, etc. We trusted each other so much, we gave out our full names. After dm-ing on the app for a couple months (The app name is PicsArt Btw), we gave each other our phone numbers. Then go from there. This girl is like, 2 years younger than me. I mention “Jewls” at the end of the poem. That’s her nickname, and that’s what I’ve always called her sense we first shared our names. I also mentioned the word “Blocked” quite a lot. That’s because she’s blocked every single very small amount of social medias I have, which includes one PicsArt Profile, two Pinterest accounts, one Phone Number, four Email Accounts. I literally cannot contact her.

The day we met, I’ll never forget, The good times we had on those dark dark days.

The day we met, You said you’d never forget The laughs we shared on those boring old days

The day we met She’ll never forget That I covered for her on those crazy unfair days

The day we met I’ll never forget When we saw each other’s faces on that bright bright day.

The day we fought I never even thought That things could turn out in this way

The day we fought You never even thought That you could be so cruel today

The day I cried I barley even tried To get out of bed when I thought of your face

The day she smiled On the other side of the world While I was sat in a puddle of my wounds

Today, this day She’ll never understand That I miss her still even if she broke my heart

…and stomped on my dreams …and crushed my soul …and slashed my seams

That she turned upside down that I called her name That she turned around Just to laugh in my face

Then I ran away But I can’t let go And though she’s moved on I still seem to know That one part of her Maybe misses me? But then again Why would she want to make me bleed? And call me a liar A fake A Bitch A Freak A creep A jerk A maid A weak?

Why would she say she loved me? When all she did was dump me It had only been an hour And then she said I did something She got someone else to do a favor That broke my heart from the start Then we go around and yell through the keyboard And in the end, I always get blamed

Doors shut Now I want to say “I’m sorry, Jewls, please don’t go away!”

It’s too late now. It’s been weeks sense that day. But it feels like It happened yesterday

Cause I’m still as hurt And I’m still as torn As I was the day We said our last words

Now I’m remembering our times And saying to myself “The day we met, I told you I’d never forget.”

Thank you for sharing this, Ainsley. Keep writing!

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200 Poetry Prompts for your Next Poem

Form specific poetry prompts .

64. Rap – Write rhyming lyrics meant to be spoken rhythmically over music sampling and beats. Make it fresh and lyrical.

72. Odin – Write a poem in three stanzas, two with four lines and one with three, using alliteration and kennings. Make it ancient and epic.

76. Nature – Write a poem celebrating trees, storms, flowers, seasons, landscapes or animals. Make it lush.

84. Lune – Write a three line poem with 5 syllables in the first line, 3 syllables in the second, and 5 syllables in the third. Make it minimalist.

93. Concrete – Write visual shaped poetry using the arrangement of words on the page to enhance the meaning. Make it vivid and imaginative.

100. Experimental – Break conventions and explore new possibilities in poetic forms, language, and subjects. Make it radically creative.

General Poetry Prompts

2. Pick a color and write a poem using imagery and metaphors related to that color.

9. Pick an emotion and write a poem that rouses that exact emotion in the reader.

17. Go to a park or natural area. Write a poem personifying an aspect, like the trees swaying or water flowing.

23. Compose a poem using repetition of the first line at the end of each stanza.

39. Use metaphor to describe a friendship or relationship in a new way.

60. Write a poem around a central theme or message you want to convey to readers.

79. Pick an issue or cause important to you. Write a poem rallying others to lend their voice or take action.

97. Use similes and vivid imagery to describe a simple, everyday object in a fresh imaginative way.

By opening up, we better know ourselves and connect with others. Keep these prompts close by whenever inspiration strikes.

Forest app: the complete review for writers, 19 writing challenge for poets, playwrights, prose writers and more, leave a comment cancel reply.

Poem Ideas: 255 Prompts to Spark Your Creativity

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on October 6, 2023

Categories Creativity , Creative Writing , Writing

Poetry is a timeless art form that allows writers to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a creative way. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just starting out, finding inspiration for new poem ideas can sometimes be a challenge. There are countless ways to spark your creativity and tap into the unique perspectives that can shape your poetry.

One way to approach writing poems is to explore your personal emotions and experiences, using language and imagery to convey these feelings to the reader. Connecting with nature and drawing inspiration from the world around you can also provide rich material for your poetry. Additionally, trying out various writing techniques and using prompts and themes can help you hone your skills over time, experimenting with different styles and voices.

Key Takeaways

Explore personal emotions and experiences to create authentic and moving poetry.
Connect with nature and the world around you for inspiration and unique perspectives.
Experiment with different writing techniques, prompts, and themes to enhance your poetic skills.

255 Poem Ideas

Here are 255 poem ideas grouped into themes:

A poem about watching the sunset over the ocean
A poem comparing a flower to a person
A poem about getting lost in the woods
A poem about the changing of the seasons
A poem personifying a tree through the seasons
A love poem using extended metaphor
A poem celebrating a first kiss
A poem mourning the end of a relationship
A poem about unrequited love
A poem giving advice about love
A poem about starting a new chapter
A poem about overcoming challenges
A poem about a major life change
A poem about finding your purpose
A poem about not giving up on your dreams
A poem reminiscing about your childhood home
A poem about childhood imaginary friends
A poem reflecting on lessons learned in childhood
A poem about childhood adventures
A poem about childhood innocence
A poem thanking a parent or grandparent
A poem about family traditions
A poem about family conflict
A poem about the bonds of siblinghood
A poem regretting not spending more time with family
An ode to your best friend
A poem about making new friends
A poem about drifting apart from friends
A poem celebrating your friends’ quirks
A poem about shared childhood memories
A poem exploring a social issue
A poem about conformity
A poem about social media’s influence
A poem examining racism
A poem about poverty
A poem about finding yourself
A poem wrestling with contradictory parts of yourself
A poem about not fitting in
A poem learning to embrace who you are
A poem about masks we wear in public
A poem reminiscing a happy memory
A poem about a memory you can’t let go of
A poem about a place that holds memories
A poem about forgetting people or moments
A poem about artifacts that hold memories
A poem exploring how quickly time passes
A poem regretting wasted time
A poem about making every moment count
A poem appreciating the present moment
A poem about learning patience over time
A poem reflecting on death
A poem exploring grief
A poem about leaving a legacy
A poem making peace with mortality
A poem marking a person’s passing
A grateful poem for everyday blessings
A poem thanking someone who changed you
A poem on the gifts of nature
A poem on the power of gratitude
A poem thanking an inanimate object
A poem encouraging hope in hard times
A poem envisioning a bright future
A poem seeing light in the darkness
A poem keeping hope alive
A poem inspiring hope through nature
A poem regretting words left unsaid
A poem regretting paths not taken
A poem making peace with regret
A poem learning from regret
A poem regretting a lost opportunity
A poem about seasons changing
A poem reflecting on personal growth
A poem about transition or transformation
A poem resisting unwanted change
A poem accepting the inevitability of change
A poem exploring a truth you’ve uncovered
A poem admitting a difficult truth
A poem searching for truth
A poem differentiating truth from lies
A poem revealing an ironic truth

Perseverance

A poem about overcoming obstacles
A poem encouraging persistence through challenges
A poem about defeating self-doubt
A poem on the rewards of perseverance
A poem urging self-belief during hard times
A poem about being brave in the face of fear
A poem about standing up for someone or something
A poem on finding inner courage
A poem celebrating everyday acts of courage
A poem about a historical act of courage
A poem imparting a life lesson or piece of wisdom
A poem appreciating the wisdom of elders
A poem gaining wisdom through suffering
A poem reflecting on the journey to wisdom
A poem debating the nature of wisdom
A poem learning from failure
A poem overcoming failure
A poem finding hope after failure
A poem accepting failure
A poem gaining perspective through failure
A poem celebrating a personal success
A poem cautioning against pride in success
A poem defining true success
A poem appreciating simple successes
A poem about success and failure going hand in hand

Opportunity

A poem about seizing opportunities
A poem regretting missed opportunities
A poem seeing opportunities in challenges
A poem urging boldness in taking opportunities
A poem grateful for second chances
A poem exploring injustice in society
A poem advocating for equality and fairness
A poem appreciating justice finally achieved
A poem lamenting a lack of justice
A poem on karma bringing justice
A poem envisioning world peace
A poem appreciating inner peace
A poem finding peace in nature
A poem yearning for peace of mind
A poem reflecting on the fragility of peace
An anti-war poem
A poem from a soldier’s perspective
A poem about the loss of innocence through war
A poem reflecting on the devastation of war
A poem urging peace and understanding
A poem about loneliness even when surrounded by others
A poem reflecting on the pain of loneliness
A poem finding comfort in solitude
A poem about superficial relationships
A poem advocating human connection to ease loneliness
A poem about losing a loved one
A poem processing a breakup
A poem about losing your sense of self
A poem reminiscing a lost friendship
An ode to your favorite song
A poem comparing music to magic
A poem exploring music’s power to transport you
A poem appreciating live music
A poem with song lyrics woven through it
An ekphrastic poem inspired by a painting
A poem exploring the process of creation
A poem appreciating fading beauty
A poem about finding truth in art
A poem celebrating an artist
A poem inspired by a dance style
A poem appreciating the artistry of dance
A poem using dance as a metaphor
A poem observing dancers
A poem capturing a dancer’s dedication
A poem praising the excitement of cities
A poem observing city-dwellers
A poem exploring urban isolation
A poem appreciating small town charm
A poem people-watching in a crowd
A poem imagining humanity’s future
A poem envisioning your personal future
A poem appreciating living in the present
A poem about worrying about the future
A poem exploring fear of the unknown
A poem considering technology’s benefits and risks
A poem satirizing social media
A poem exploring how tech changes communication
A poem appreciating simplicity without technology
A poem imagining fantastic future tech
A poem reflecting on getting older
A poem exploring fear of aging
A poem appreciating wisdom gained with age
A poem lamenting fading youth
A poem accepting the passage of time
A poem exploring a historical event
A poem appreciating past progress
A poem urging learning from the past
A poem regretting repeating past mistakes
A poem reflecting on change over time
A protest poem about a cause you care about
A poem exploring the corruption of power
A poem appreciating living in a democracy
A poem about feeling powerless
A poem examining political divisions

Environment

A poem appreciating the beauty of nature
A call to action poem about climate change
A poem exploring humanity’s impact on the earth
A poem connecting nature to emotions
A poem lamenting environmental destruction
A poem praising scientific discoveries
A poem warning about ethical dilemmas of science
A poem using scientific imagery
A poem exploring space’s mysteries
A poem appreciating science’s vast scope
A spiritual poem praising a higher power
A poem grappling with faith or doubt
A poem exploring religion’s contradictions
An anti-war poem using religious imagery
A poem finding divinity in nature
A poem inspired by a mythological creature
A poem modernizing a mythological tale
A poem drawing parallels to a mythic archetype
A poem exploring the role of myths in culture
A poem humanizing a god or hero
A poem wishing magic was real
A poem using magic as a metaphor
A poem seeing the magical in the mundane
A poem exploring ideas of spells, potions, etc.
A poem appreciating the magic of nature
A poem reminiscing about a travel destination
A poem about getting lost in a new place
A poem celebrating the excitement of travel
A poem appreciating the journey, not just the destination
A poem reflecting on what you learn through travel

Imagination

A poem celebrating the power of imagination
A poem reminiscing about an imaginary childhood friend
A poem exploring ideas of fantasy and escapism
A poem appreciating the imagination of children
A poem urging creative thinking and imagination
A poem reflecting on a meaningful dream
A poem exploring surreal dream imagery
A poem about wishes, hopes and dreams
A poem about nightmares or recurring dreams
A poem finding meaning or messages in dreams
A poem marveling at the vastness of space
A poem imagining alien life forms
A poem appreciating the beauty of stars and planets
A poem exploring feelings of insignificance compared to space
A poem using space exploration as a metaphor
A poem praising the magnificence of the ocean
A poem reflecting on the soothing sound of waves
A poem exploring ocean depths
A poem appreciating the freedom of sailing
A poem warning about ocean pollution
An ode to a beloved pet
A poem from an animal’s perspective
A poem about adopting a rescue pet
A poem exploring the bonds between humans and animals
A poem reflecting on losing a pet
An ode to a favorite childhood meal
A poem appreciating the simple pleasure of food
A poem exploring food memories and associations
A poem satirizing overconsumption
A poem urging awareness of hunger issues
A poem celebrating an athlete’s dedication
A poem exploring the parallels between sports and life
A poem appreciating the excitement of sports fandom
A poem reflecting on a meaningful sporting event
A poem satirizing hyper-competitiveness in sports
A poem on the value of learning
A poem appreciating an influential teacher
A poem exploring the atmosphere of school
A poem reflecting on the college experience
A poem critiquing the education system
A poem about the craft of poetry
A poem celebrating poetic language
A poem appreciating the wisdom and beauty of poems
A poem urging everyone to try writing poetry
A meta-poem about writing this poem

Understanding Poetry

Setting the tone.

When you begin your journey into poetry writing, it’s essential to set the tone of your poem. The tone plays a crucial role in conveying your message and emotions. To create a specific atmosphere in your poem, consider using elements like color and smell, which can enhance the reader’s experience.

Colors can evoke strong emotions in your writing. For example, red might represent love or anger, while blue can convey calmness or sadness.

Including descriptions of different smells can also help to stimulate the reader’s senses and create a more immersive experience. Be confident in your choices and use your knowledge of these elements to make your poetry engaging and clear.

Using Metaphors

Metaphors are powerful tools in poetry as they allow you to express complex emotions and ideas in an imaginative way. By using metaphors, you can create imagery that resonates with your readers, elevating your poetry to new heights.

A well-crafted metaphor can give depth to your writing, making it more engaging and thought-provoking.

In your pursuit of understanding poetry, don’t be afraid to experiment with different metaphors and analogies. Trust your ability to find unique and captivating ways to convey your emotions and observations.

Remember, poetry is a personal expression, and while it might not always be crystal clear to every reader, your goal is to make a connection with those who resonate with your words.

Tapping into Emotions

When writing poetry, one of the most powerful tools at your disposal is tapping into emotions. By allowing yourself to feel and explore various emotions, you can create poems that resonate with your readers.

In this section, we will briefly discuss four key emotional themes – love, fear, sadness, and joy – and how you can interweave them into your poetry.

Exploring Love

Love, in all its forms, is a universal emotion that can fuel the most emotive poetry. Whether you’re writing about romantic love, the love between friends or family members, or even self-love, you have the opportunity to tap into a deep well of emotions.

When exploring love, think about your own experiences as well as the emotional experiences of others. Dive into the intricacies of relationships and how love can elicit emotions such as happiness, jealousy, and even sadness.

Dealing with Fear

Fear is an emotion that everyone experiences at one time or another. Whether it’s the fear of death, the unknown, or even failure, tapping into this emotion can create powerful poems that your readers can relate to.

When writing about fear, consider how it can manifest itself in different situations and how it can impact your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. By delving into this primal emotion, you can create poetry that captivates your audience and encourages them to confront their own fears.

Unravelling Sadness

Sadness, while often seen as a negative emotion, can serve as a source of inspiration and growth for your poetry. It can be brought upon by events such as experiencing loneliness, loss, or disappointment.

When unravelling sadness in your poems, consider the deeper emotions that come with it, such as regret, longing, and even hope. Challenge yourself to dig deep and capture the raw emotions that sadness evokes, allowing your readers to connect with your words on a profound level.

Finding Joy

Lastly, joy is an emotion that can bring vibrancy and light to your poetry. This emotion can sprout from countless sources, such as success, friendship, or the beauty found in everyday life.

When writing about joy, think about the moments that make your heart leap and the feelings that accompany them. Incorporate these moments into your poetry and show your readers the transformative power joy can have on our lives.

By tapping into this emotion, your poems can become a celebration of the human experience, inviting your audience to embrace the happiness that exists around them.

Expressing Personal Experiences

Drawing from dreams.

Dreams can be a treasure trove of inspiration for your poetry. They often contain vivid emotions, unusual events, and striking imagery. You can use your dream experiences to create surprising and engaging poems that transport your readers to another world.

To begin, keep a journal of your dreams and make it a habit to write them down as soon as you wake up. This practice can enhance your creativity and lend a touch of surrealism to your poetry.

Memory and Nostalgia

Poems about personal experiences often draw from memories and nostalgia. Writing about past events can help you process emotions, preserve important memories, and share your unique perspective with others.

When creating a poem based on memory, try to focus on specific moments and details. This can make your work more relatable and engaging to readers. Don’t shy away from exploring painful or regretful experiences, as they can elicit strong emotions and foster personal growth.

Writing about Relationships

Exploring relationships through poetry can be a powerful way of processing and expressing the complex emotions involved in connections with friends, family members, and romantic partners. From love, friendship, and admiration to loss, betrayal, and heartbreak, your experiences with others offer a rich well of inspiration for your poetry.

Remember to approach sensitive topics with empathy and respect, especially when writing about real people. This will help maintain authenticity while avoiding unnecessary negativity.

Reflecting on Growth and Change

One of the most rewarding aspects of writing poetry is the opportunity to reflect on your personal growth and change . By examining the transformation in your life, you can tap into themes of resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery.

Consider using metaphorical language to convey the process of growth and change, as it can help to illustrate abstract concepts in a more tangible way. Writing about your journey in the second person point of view may also invite readers to share in your experiences and find their own meaning in your work.

Connecting with Nature

Experiencing seasons.

As you explore the world of poetry, one captivating theme to consider is the ever-changing beauty of nature and its seasons. Each season has its unique qualities, from the awakening of spring to the crisp air of autumn. Writing about the seasons can be an opportunity to express your connection with the Earth and its natural cycles.

Close your eyes and picture the multitude of colors the leaves take on in the fall, or the first signs of blossoming flowers in the spring. The contrast of the sweltering summer sun against the icy chill of winter can also inspire emotions and memories that may translate well into poetry. In your writing, be sure to convey the distinct atmospheres and feelings each season brings.

Don’t hesitate to explore the intimate connections between nature’s transformations and your own personal growth.

Captivating Landscapes

Another way to connect with nature when writing poetry is by focusing on the diverse landscapes that make up our planet. Consider the vastness of the ocean, with its waves crashing onto the shore and the mysterious depths that remain unexplored. You can also find inspiration in the tranquil beauty of a forest or the striking grandeur of a mountain range.

When writing about landscapes, remember to depict the sky and weather as part of the scenery. This will help create a vivid picture for the reader, immersing them in the landscape, and evoking the emotions you wish to convey. Whether it be a calm, clear day or a stormy night, the sky plays a significant role in setting the tone and atmosphere of your poem.

As you craft your poetry, draw from your personal experiences and memories, as well as your imagination, to bring these scenes to life. The beauty of the natural world lays endless inspiration at your fingertips, allowing you to create meaningful and captivating poems that resonate with readers.

Using Writing Techniques

Incorporating rhyme and rhythm.

Rhyme and rhythm are essential components of many poems. They create a musical quality that can make your writing more engaging. When brainstorming poem ideas, try experimenting with different rhyme schemes and rhythmic patterns to elevate your work.

For example, during National Poetry Month, you might challenge yourself to write a new poem each day that follows a specific rhyme scheme or meter.

Rhythm can be achieved by varying the syllable count in each line or by using a particular stressed-unstressed pattern in your words. Remember the key is to be confident and maintain a clear tone in your writing.

Trying Out Poetic Structures

There are numerous poetic structures you can explore when seeking inspiration for your poetry. Here are a few to consider:

Acrostic: An acrostic poem is where the first letter of each line spells out a word or message when read vertically. This poetic form can be a creative way to convey your theme or introduce a hidden meaning.
Limerick: A limerick is a humorous, short verse comprising five lines with a strict AABBA rhyme scheme. The first, second, and fifth lines have a longer length, while the third and fourth lines are shorter. Limericks are perfect for showcasing your wit and playfulness.
Haiku: Haiku is a traditional Japanese poetic form consisting of three lines. The first and third lines have five syllables, while the second line has seven syllables. This structure challenges you to precisely convey your emotions and thoughts within its constraints. Haiku is often inspired by nature, but feel free to explore other themes.

Incorporating these writing techniques and structures in your poetry can help you discover new ways to express your thoughts and ideas. Remember to use resources like poetry prompts to further stimulate your creativity and experiment with different styles during National Poetry Month. Your poems will undoubtedly evolve as you gain confidence and become more knowledgeable about the art of writing poetry.

Incorporating Real Experiences

Turning travel into poetry.

Travel can be a powerful source of inspiration for your poetry. Whether you’re leaving home for a new adventure or simply exploring your surroundings, traveling offers a unique opportunity to capture the beauty and complexity of different places, cultures, and experiences.

When writing about your travels, pay attention to the sounds, sights, and emotions you encounter along the way. For example, you could write about the melody of a street musician, the bustling atmosphere of a marketplace, or the serenity of a hidden garden. Let these experiences enrich your poetry and invite readers to journey with you through your words.

Cultivating Inspiration from Food and Objects

Food and objects may seem like mundane subjects, but both can inspire meaningful and creative poetry. When writing about food, focus on the rich sensory experiences it evokes. Describe the aroma, taste, and texture of your favorite meal, or explore the cultural significance and memories associated with a childhood dish.

Similarly, everyday objects can serve as muses for your poetry. Consider the emotional connection you have with a cherished possession or the nostalgia tied to a certain item. Delve into the history and symbolism of an object, such as a piece of jewelry, a book, or even a musical instrument. By examining these seemingly ordinary items, you can unveil deeper layers of meaning and evoke strong emotions in your readers.

Remember to maintain a confident, knowledgeable, and neutral tone in your writing. By doing so, you’ll create a clear and engaging experience for your audience. So, let your travels and everyday experiences inspire your poetry, and enjoy the creative journey.

Using Prompts and Themes

Using quotes and news articles.

Utilizing quotes from famous personalities or snippets from news articles can be an effective way to inspire your poetry writing. It allows you to tap into emotions, experiences, and social issues that others have already explored. Pay attention to impactful lines from songs, books, or speeches, as well as thought-provoking news stories, and let their words be a springboard for your creativity.

Tapping into the Unusual

Embrace the unusual, such as time travel or unique aspects of nature when seeking inspiration for your poem ideas. Look for topics that are out of the ordinary and challenge yourself to weave them into a poetic narrative. This approach will not only stretch your creativity but also open doors for imaginative scenarios and descriptions. For example, you could write a poem about traveling to the future or delve into the enigmatic relationship between music and memories.

Reflecting through Spirituality

Incorporating spirituality into your poetry can provide a deeper meaning and connection to your work. Reflect on your own spiritual beliefs or explore others’ perspectives on the topic. You can also use spirituality to examine the nuances of human emotions and experiences. By connecting your poetry to the spiritual world, you’ll create an intriguing and thought-provoking piece.

Honoring Life’s Milestones

When you’re crafting a poem to honor life’s milestones, it’s essential to capture the emotions and sentiments surrounding these significant events. Poems can serve as a way to commemorate and celebrate these occasions and help invoke powerful memories.

For instance, when it comes to weddings , your poem can focus on the union of two souls, the love they share, and the significance of embarking on this new journey together. Consider incorporating themes of unity, commitment, and partnership, as well as the joy and excitement of entering this new phase. A wedding poem might include lines about love’s strength, the beauty of the couple’s bond, and well-wishes for their future.

On the other hand, if you want to write a poem about growing old , emphasize the wisdom, memories, and experiences that come with aging. You can also touch upon the beauty in the journey of life, reflecting not only on one’s accomplishments but also on the lessons learned along the way. It’s essential to approach this topic with sensitivity, respect, and admiration for the person being celebrated.

Keep your tone confident, knowledgeable, and neutral while maintaining clarity in your language. When celebrating life’s milestones through poetry, remember that you’re capturing a snapshot of a specific moment in time. Whether you’re writing for someone else or yourself, your words should resonate with sincerity and emotion.

Remember, the key to an impactful poem lies in its authenticity and ability to move the reader. So, as you write, draw inspiration from your own experiences and emotions, or those of the person you’re writing for. By doing so, you’ll create a piece that will leave a lasting impression and serve as a beautiful testament to the milestone being honored.

Creative Writing Techniques

Using personification.

Personification is a powerful tool in poetry, allowing you to give human-like qualities to inanimate objects or abstract concepts. This technique can enhance your poems by adding depth and emotion. Try to experiment with personification in your poetry by selecting a concept or object and attributing it human characteristics. For instance, you could write about how the wind whispers secrets through the trees or how the sun smiles down on the earth.

Writing Haikus and Limericks

Haikus and limericks are both short, structured forms of poetry that can provide an enjoyable challenge for poets of all levels. Haiku poems, inspired by Japanese tradition, comprise three lines with a syllable structure of 5-7-5. These poems often capture a moment in nature or an emotion. Limericks, on the other hand, are humorous five-line poems with an AABBA rhyme scheme. Experimenting with these structures can improve your poetry writing skills and offer creative writing ideas for your future works.

Creating a Descriptive Poem

Descriptive poems utilize vivid imagery and sensory details to transport the reader to a particular place, time, or experience. To create a descriptive poem, choose a specific setting or experience you want to bring to life through your words. Use all of your senses to craft a vivid picture for the reader, employing not only visual details but also sounds, smells, tastes, and tactile sensations. As you develop your descriptive poetry, you’ll find your ability to convey emotions and create vivid images in your reader’s mind enriches your overall poetry writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common themes in poetry.

In poetry, there are several common themes that poets often explore, such as love, death, nature, time, and friendship. These themes help to convey universal human experiences, emotions, and ideas that are relatable to a wide range of readers.

How can I find inspiration for writing a poem?

Finding inspiration for writing a poem can come from various sources, such as personal experiences, emotions, memories, or ideas. Observing the world around you and immersing yourself in nature can also inspire your writing. Reflect on the feelings and thoughts you have while falling asleep, as these moments can often lead to unique and imaginative ideas.

What are some examples of different poem structures?

Different poem structures include free verse, sonnets, haikus, and acrostics, among others. Experimenting with various formats allows you to hone your craft and discover the style that best suits your voice. To practice, challenge yourself to write a sonnet a day to help empty your head and generate new ideas.

What are some tips for writing a poem about life?

When writing a poem about life, think about the specific aspects you want to explore and convey. You can focus on personal experiences, emotions, or observations of the world around you. Consider including sensory details and vivid imagery to help readers immerse themselves in your poem. Studying great poems about life can also serve as inspiration.

Can you suggest some poetry prompts for beginners?

For beginners looking to start writing poetry, it’s helpful to start with prompts such as writing a poem about a cherished friendship, exploring the transition between seasons, or describing a unique experience in your life. These prompts can serve as a starting point and inspire your creativity.

How do I incorporate emotion, such as sadness, into a poem?

To incorporate emotions like sadness into a poem, draw upon your own experiences and feelings. You can also use sensory details, imagery, and metaphors to evoke specific emotions and create a vivid picture for the reader. Reading poems that explore emotions can provide insight into how other poets successfully express emotions in their work.

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EveryWriter

A New Community of Writers

50 Poetry Prompts Every Writer Should Try

January 12, 2023 by Richard 2 Comments

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 .

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Blogs / Poetry / 35 Poem Ideas to Spark Your Creativity

Perfect Your Storytelling

35 poem ideas to spark your creativity.

Here’s help for when it happens. You know IT, that moment you must write a poem. It may be an internal desire or external pressure (shout out to students and poets publishing everywhere)

You may want to write a poem to express your innermost self, to celebrate someone, to explore the world, or to finish an assignment. You may be writing for someone special, for yourself, for your community, your teacher, or the world. This poem may be published or shared or not. Even if you are the only one to read this poem, you want to write it.

If only you could get an idea to start.

The following list offers a variety of options. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure for poets!

You could dive in, grab a topic at random and begin brainstorming.

Skim the list, and only read what catches your eye to spark your writing.

Scour for a topic or heading you have considered before and notice if any of the ideas take you to a new spot to start your poem.

Don’t worry if others have written on the same topic. You are unique. No one else has experienced the world exactly the way you have. Poetry gives you a chance to explore your authentic voice, creativity, and imagination.

How many times have you read a deeply personal poem that resonates with you?

So often, we find the connection to others in what can seem like a very particular viewpoint. When a poet writes about holding their newborn or their dying parent’s hand, we feel our shared humanity.

Trust your heart and experience to help you share your voice.

And play. See where your mind and creativity take you. Spin around and point a finger anywhere on the list to challenge yourself with an unexpected idea.

However you use this list, it is here for you. Don’t get stopped by IT.

Let’s get sparking!

Poem Topics About Nature

Inspiration from the wonder of nature is just, well, natural. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity with this limitless topic.

Take a walk and focus on one sense at a time. Push past the first few things you notice to see what you hadn’t heard or seen before.
Choose one specific thing, a tree or a bird, and write about it in detail.
Look for contrasts in nature like seasons or landscapes.
A pebble tossed on the beach: controlled by larger forces in life
A flower growing through a crack: resilience of a person
Birds flying: freedom of movement
Seahorses: flexibility
Storm, hurricane, tornado, or thunderstorm
Sea or waves
Stars, comet, or moon
Bugs: black flies, ticks, dragonflies
A single mosquito in the bedroom at night
Weather: rain, snow, dust storm
A rainbow seen after being drenched by rain
Animals: mice, fish, turtles, cows
The flash of a deer’s tail as you drive at night
The wild within your pet

Check out John Donne’s poem, “The Flea,” for an interesting example of using an element of nature to inspire a poem

Poetry Ideas About Love

Take a moment to consider all the types of love in the world. Each of these can be a starting place for you to express the power of love. Get ready to write your next great love poem.

Love of family
Love of friends
Dream lover
Imagined future : partner, child, pet
A relationship that has ended. Think about what is lost and gained
Someone you loved who has died: who they were, how you felt and feel. Make it a tribute or ode.
Long distance relationship
Separated by: work, family, friends, choices
Emotions, thoughts, fears, or hopes
Falling in versus falling out of love
Unexpected love
Unconventional love
Enduring love
Take one word associated with love and explore what it might mean: red, heart, flowers, or chocolate
Take an opposite or contrasting word and explore what it might mean for love. Instead of red, blue; instead of heart, liver; instead of flowers, stones; instead of chocolate, onions

Check out Carol Anne Duffy’s poem, “Valentine” to read about a very different Valentine’s gift

Topics for Poems About Death

There are many poems already written that try to give comfort and help those dealing with death, dying, and grief. The following few prompts deal with death as a topic for poetry. Take care of yourself first. Please read with discretion, and move on to another topic if you find any prompts triggering or uncomfortable.

Death has been personified in poetry. Giving death human qualities and a face allows the poet to interact with the concept. Some belittle death, some rage, some plead, and some try to understand. If death were a person, what would you like to say or do? Does artistry or creation of things that last beyond a human life make you immortal?
What happens after death? From different cultural beliefs to our own thoughts and imagination, humans have wondered what happens after death. Are there metaphors or images that give you comfort or understanding?
Mobile phones replacing home phones
Cars over horses for transportation
Is death part of learning and growing as individuals? Do old beliefs have to die to be replaced with new ones? Is death part of the creative process?

Good Poem Topics About Emotion

Every emotion can offer opportunities for poetry. Below is a list of both emotions and prompts that might elicit an emotion or memory of an emotion. If you take the challenge, these prompts may lead you into a place of vulnerability in writing and create a deep connection for your readers.

Happiness: What makes you happy? What brings you joy? What moments brought you happiness? Who do you think of and smile?
Sadness: What makes you sad? When you think of the word sorrow, what are your first thoughts or memories?
What makes you fearful or frustrated? Use the source as the focus for your poem.
Vulnerability

Check out W.B. Yeats’ poem, “When You Are Old,” to inspire emotion and memory.

Poetry Topics About Politics, History, and Culture

As you reflect on the world around you, national and international events may seem too overwhelming to choose as a topic for your poetry. Check out the topics below to be inspired to find the intimate and real within larger issues of our time.

Begin with childhood memories. Is there a moment from your childhood that touches on your understanding of the history and culture around you?
Write about the personal impact of a significant event. This may be a large global crisis or a small local incident. Explore your thoughts and feelings as you reflect on the event.
Consider struggles faced by individuals and groups. What was gained and lost in the struggle? Is there a viewpoint or individual that sparks your creative interest? Write the poem from that perspective.

Check out Brendon Joyce’s poem, “Nobody Wants To Work,” as an example of using a single viewpoint to explore political topics.

Using Poetry Groups and Movements to Generate Poem Ideas

Poets may be grouped by focus, topic, or self-identification with other poets. Consider any of the following ideas to inspire your next poem, or research to discover other movements that could help you see the world and poetry in a new way.

The following are only a few examples of groups that could provide inspiration for your next poem. Equally, you may discover a spark in exploring the opposite of any of these ideas.

Just feel in the moment. Write about the emotion that comes forward first.
Remember a strong emotional moment in your life. Think about what aspect of the natural world you can see a connection with. Explore that reflection in your poem.
Celebrate creativity.

Check out William Wordsworth’s poem, “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.”

What do you think is an absolute truth in art? What symbols inspire your understanding of life and truth?
Write an extended metaphor.

Check out Paul Verlaine’s poem, “Last Hope.”

Choose a subject and use simple, clear language to create an image.
Look at an everyday object and create an image using precise, colloquial language

Check out Ezra Pound’s poem, “In a Station of the Metro” and William Carlos Williams’ poem, “The Red Wheelbarrow.”

Imagine you are a visitor from another planet and describe common objects

For inspiration read “A Martian Sends a Postcard Home” by Craig Raine.

Capture a memory of a social injustice from your life. Write a poem focusing on the strong emotions felt. Let the words create a rhythm as you read them aloud.

Check out “The Broken English Dream” by Pedro Pietri to get a sense of the rhythm and power of this poetry.

Play with Forms

Sometimes, it is fun to play with different forms. Consider some of these types of poems and poetry styles. Use the structure as a framework for your poem. Don’t be too focused on making your poem fit exactly, at least to start. This is about sparking creativity.

Acrostic : the first letter of the first word on each line spells out a word. So, just pick a word and write.
I Am : This is a poem all about you that doesn’t have any other rules.
Limerick : Funny poems with a set rhyme scheme of AABBA with the lines one, two and five all longer than lines three and four. The last line is often the punchline.
Narrative : This poem tells a story. Ballads are a type of narrative poem. You could take an old story and write it as a narrative poem.
Rhyming Couplets : The last word in each of the two consecutive lines rhyme. How many rhyming couplets can you make about a topic?
Sonnet : Ready for a challenge? Sonnets are made up of 14 lines with a specific rhyming scheme. Petrarchan sonnets follow an ABBA ABBA CDE CDE rhyme scheme. Shakespearean sonnets usually use the rhyme scheme of ABAB CDCD EFEF GG (ending with a rhyming couplet).

How to Choose What to Write a Poem About

As well as the suggestions above for sparking your creativity, there are a few easy tips to help you decide what to write a poem about.

Begin with you. The old adage is to write what you know. What exactly does that mean? What does it look like?

Here are a few ideas to help you use this advice to choose your topic:

Use your memories : When you write from memory, you have both the feelings you experienced at that past moment and your reflection on the experience now. How cool is that? Depth built into what you know intimately.
Use your perspective of the world around you : What do you feel about the world outside yourself? How do you experience the world? Use this understanding and emotion to help choose your topic. For example, from Nature you have chosen to focus on a flower in your garden. As well as looking at the senses, take a wider look at the flower. What is your perspective of the place of flowers in gardens? What about your individual garden compared to those who don’t have gardens or land? How does a close look at that flower impact how you see yourself within the wider world?
Use your perspective about yourself and your relationships : When you choose a topic from the list, use yourself as the fuel. Only you have a deep understanding of how you feel about yourself and those around you. Even if you have picked a topic that seems outside yourself, begin within. Remember that flower you picked to write about? Well, it was a specific flower in your garden. Already, the topic is linked closely to you. Now, explore this from your understanding of yourself. What do you see? Which sense is most powerful for you?

How to Explore Ideas for Your Poem

Consider trying this simple system for developing ideas for your poem.

Notice : Jot down your first thoughts.
Second thoughts : What else do you notice? Write down the challenges that come immediately to mind.
Five more things : For each idea, follow it through by asking “and what else?” at least five more times.
Emotion : Write any emotions that pop into your mind.
Senses : For each of the five senses, write at least one word. Ideally, try five words.
Connections : Free write a connection to any words in your list so far.
Random : Highlight or circle five words from your list. Rewrite them on a new sheet. What new connections do you see? Add those in.

With this quick brainstorm, you will have a variety of words and images to help keep your creativity sparking as you write your poem.

Play as you explore where the words and images take you.

Then, write your first draft. Play. Make a mess.

Whatever inspired your desire to write a poem, you have a unique voice and viewpoint to share with the world.

Come back any time for inspiration whenever IT happens.

How to write a story
How to write a novel
How to write poetry
Dramatic writing
How to write a memoir
How to write a mystery
Creative journaling
Publishing advice
Story starters
Poetry prompts
For teachers

Poem Starters and Creative Writing Ideas

Here are lots of poem starters that you can use for your own poetry writing. (If you're looking for story starters instead, click here) . At the bottom of the page, you'll find links to more pages with creative writing ideas.

Poetry ideas - Write a poem about:

A particular color
Being underwater
A person whose life you're curious about
Your mother's perfume
Falling asleep or waking up
Growing older
The feeling of getting lost in a book
How to know if you're in love
A bad dream
Your city, town, or neighborhood
An important life choice you've made
Spring, summer, fall, or winter
Something most people see as ugly but which you see as beautiful
Becoming a parent
An event that changed you
A place you visited -- how you imagined it beforehand, and what it was actually like
The speed of light
A voodoo doll
Reflections on a window
A newspaper headline
Your greatest fear
Your grandmother's hands
A particular toy you had as a child
Being invisible
A time you felt homesick
Having an affair, or discovering your partner is having one
A favorite food and a specific memory of eating it
An imaginary city
Driving with the radio on
Life in an aquarium
Walking with your eyes closed
What a computer might daydream about
Time travel
Brothers or sisters
Your job, or a job you've had
Leaving home
A historical event from the perspective of someone who saw it firsthand (You will have to do some research for this).
Holding your breath
Intimacy and privacy
A time you were tempted to do something you feel is wrong
Physical attraction to someone
A superstition you have
Someone you admire

seashells, stones, and jewel, representing poem starters, poetry ideas

Poem starters- the five senses

54. Write about the taste of: an egg, an orange, medicine, cinnamon 55. Write about the smell of: burning food, melting snow, the ocean, your grandparents' home, the inside of a bus, pavement after the rain 56. Write about the sound of: a radio changing channels, a dog howling, a football or baseball game, your parents talking in another room 57. Write about the sight of: lit windows in a house when you're standing outside at night, someone you love when he or she doesn't know you're watching, a dying plant, shadows on snow 58. Write about the feeling of: grass under bare feet, a really bad kiss, the head rush when you stand up too fast, sore muscles, falling asleep in the back seat of a moving car.

Poem starters- three elements

Write a poem that contains all three of the elements in any of the lists below:

59. a dessert, a memory, and someone in your family 60. dancing, a pitch-black room, and the smell of lilacs 61. a balloon, smoke, and a keyhole 62. a secret box, an ice cube tray, and a velvet ribbon 63. a betrayal, soap, and a plane ticket

Poem starters - keep writing

Click here for even more poetry ideas .
Click here to sign up for our online course, Essentials of Poetry Writing .
Click here for advice on how to write poetry .
Click here for story starters and fiction writing ideas .
Poem Starters

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365 Creative Writing Prompts

Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to help inspire you to write every single day! Use them for journaling, story starters, poetry, and more!

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If you want to become a better writer, the best thing you can do is practice writing every single day. Writing prompts are useful because we know sometimes it can be hard to think of what to write about!

To help you brainstorm, we put together this list of 365 creative writing prompts to give you something to write about daily.

Want to Download these prompts? I am super excited to announce due to popular demand we now have an ad-free printable version of this list of writing prompts available for just $5. The printable version includes a PDF as a list AND print-ready prompt cards. {And all the design source files you could ever need to customize any way you would like!}

Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire:

Whether you write short stories, poems, or like to keep a journal – these will stretch your imagination and give you some ideas for topics to write about!

1. Outside the Window : What’s the weather outside your window doing right now? If that’s not inspiring, what’s the weather like somewhere you wish you could be?

2. The Unrequited love poem: How do you feel when you love someone who does not love you back?

3. The Vessel: Write about a ship or other vehicle that can take you somewhere different from where you are now.

4. Dancing: Who’s dancing and why are they tapping those toes?

5. Food: What’s for breakfast? Dinner? Lunch? Or maybe you could write a poem about that time you met a friend at a cafe.

6. Eye Contact: Write about two people seeing each other for the first time.

7. The Rocket-ship: Write about a rocket-ship on its way to the moon or a distant galaxy far, far, away.

8. Dream-catcher : Write something inspired by a recent dream you had.

9. Animals: Choose an animal. Write about it!

10. Friendship: Write about being friends with someone.

11. Dragon : Envision a dragon. Do you battle him? Or is the dragon friendly? Use descriptive language.

12. Greeting : Write a story or poem that starts with the word “hello” or another greeting.

13. The Letter: Write a poem or story using words from a famous letter or inspired by a letter someone sent you.

14. The Found Poem : Read a book and circle some words on a page. Use those words to craft a poem. Alternatively, you can cut out words and phrases from magazines.

15. Eavesdropper : Create a poem, short story, or journal entry about a conversation you’ve overheard.

16. Addict: Everyone’s addicted to something in some shape or form. What are things you can’t go without?

17. Dictionary Definition : Open up a dictionary to a random word. Define what that word means to you.

18. Cleaning: Hey, even writers and creative artists have to do housework sometimes. Write about doing laundry, dishes, and other cleaning activities.

19. Great Minds: Write about someone you admire and you thought to have had a beautiful mind.

20. Missed Connections: If you go to Craigslist, there is a “Missed Connections” section where you can find some interesting storylines to inspire your writing.

21. Foreclosure : Write a poem or short story about someone who has lost or is about to lose their home.

22. Smoke, Fog, and Haze: Write about not being able to see ahead of you.

23. Sugar: Write something so sweet, it makes your teeth hurt.

24. Numbers: Write a poem or journal entry about numbers that have special meaning to you.

25. Dread: Write about doing something you don’t want to do.

26. Fear: What scares you a little? What do you feel when scared? How do you react?

27. Closed Doors: What’s behind the door? Why is it closed?

28. Shadow: Imagine you are someone’s shadow for a day.

29. Good Vibes: What makes you smile? What makes you happy?

30. Shopping: Write about your shopping wishlist and how you like to spend money.

31. The Professor: Write about a teacher that has influenced you.

32. Rewrite : Take any poem or short story you enjoy. Rewrite it in your own words.

33. Jewelry: Write about a piece of jewelry. Who does it belong to?

34. Sounds : Sit outside for about an hour. Write down the sounds you hear.

35. War and Peace: Write about a recent conflict that you dealt with in your life.

36. Frame It: Write a poem or some phrases that would make for good wall art in your home.

37. Puzzle: Write about putting together the pieces of puzzles.

38. Fire-starters: Write about building a fire.

39. Coffee & Tea: Surely you drink one or the other or know someone who does- write about it!

40. Car Keys: Write about someone getting their driver’s license for the first time.

41. What You Don’t Know: Write about a secret you’ve kept from someone else or how you feel when you know someone is keeping a secret from you.

42. Warehouse : Write about being inside an old abandoned warehouse.

43. The Sound of Silence: Write about staying quiet when you feel like shouting.

44. Insult: Write about being insulted. How do you feel? Why do you think the other person insulted you?

45. Mirror, Mirror: What if you mirror started talking to you? What might the mirror say?

46. Dirty: Write a poem about getting covered in mud.

47. Light Switch : Write about coming out of the dark and seeing the light.

48. The Stars : Take inspiration from a night sky. Or, write about a time when “the stars aligned” in your horoscope.

49. Joke Poem : What did the wall say to the other wall? Meet you at the corner! Write something inspired by a favorite joke.

50. Just Say No : Write about the power you felt when you told someone no.

51: Sunrise/Sunset : The sun comes up, the sun goes down. It goes round and round. Write something inspiring about the sunrise or sunset.

52. Memory Lane : What does Memory Lane look like? How do you get there?

53. Tear-Jerker : Watch a movie that makes you cry. Write about that scene in the movie.

54. Dear Diary: Write a poem or short story about a diary entry you’ve read or imagined.

55. Holding Hands : The first time you held someone’s hand.

56. Photograph : Write a story or journal entry influenced by a photograph you see online or in a magazine.

57. Alarm Clock: Write about waking up.

58. Darkness: Write a poem or journal entry inspired by what you can’t see.

59. Refreshed: Write a poem about a time you really felt refreshed and renewed. Maybe it was a dip into a pool on a hot summer day, a drink of lemonade, or other situation that helped you relax and start again.

60. Handle With Care : Write about a very fragile or delicate object.

61. Drama: Write about a time when you got stuck in between two parties fighting with each other.

62. Slip Up: Write about making mistakes.

63. Spice: Write about flavors and tastes or a favorite spice of yours.

64. Sing a New Song: Take a popular song off the radio and rewrite it as a poem in your own words.

65. Telephone: Write about a phone call you recently received.

66. Name: Write a poem or short story using your name in some way or form.

67. Dollhouse: Write a poem or short story from the viewpoint of someone living in a doll house.

68. Random Wikipedia Article : Go to Wikipedia and click on Random Article . Write about whatever the page you get.

69. Silly Sports: Write about an extreme or silly sport. If none inspire you, make up the rules for your own game.

70. Recipe : Write about a recipe for something abstract, such as a feeling.

71. Famous Artwork: Choose a famous painting and write about it.

72. Where That Place Used to Be : Think of a place you went to when you were younger but it now no longer there or is something else. Capture your feelings about this in your writing.

73. Last Person You Talked to: Write a quick little poem or story about the last person you spoke with.

74. Caught Red-Handed: Write about being caught doing something embarrassing.

75. Interview: Write a list of questions you have for someone you would like to interview, real or fictional.

76. Missing You: Write about someone you miss dearly.

77. Geography: Pick a state or country you’ve never visited. Write about why you would or would not like to visit that place.

78. Random Song: Turn on the radio, use the shuffle feature on your music collection or your favorite streaming music service. Write something inspired by the first song you hear.

79. Hero: Write a tribute to someone you regard as a hero.

80. Ode to Strangers: Go people watching and write an ode to a stranger you see on the street.

81. Advertisement: Advertisements are everywhere, aren’t they? Write using the slogan or line from an ad.

82. Book Inspired: Think of your favorite book. Now write a poem that sums up the entire story in 10 lines.

83. Magic : Imagine you have a touch of magic, and can make impossible things happen. What would you do?

84. Fanciest Pen: Get out your favorite pen, pencils, or even colored markers and write using them!

85. A Day in the Life: Write about your daily habits and routine.

86. Your Muse: Write about your muse – what do they look like? What does your muse do to inspire you?

87. Convenience Store : Write about an experience you’ve had at a gas station or convenience store.

88. Natural Wonders of the World: Choose one of the natural wonders of the world. Write about it.

89. Status Update: Write a poem using the words from your latest status update or a friend’s status update. If you don’t use sites like Facebook or Twitter, you can often search online for some funny ones to use as inspiration.

90. Green Thumb: Write about growing something.

91. Family Heirloom: Write about an object that’s been passed through the generations in your family.

92. Bug Catcher: Write about insects.

93. Potion: Write about a magic potion. What is it made of? What does it do? What is the antidote?

94. Swinging & Sliding: Write something inspired by a playground or treehouse.

95. Adjectives: Make a list of the first 5 adjectives that pop into your head. Use these 5 words in your story, poem, or journal entry.

96. Fairy Tales: Rewrite a fairy tale. Give it a new ending or make it modern or write as a poem.

97. Whispers: Write about someone who has to whisper a secret to someone else.

98. Smile: Write a poem about the things that make you smile.

99. Seasonal: Write about your favorite season.

100. Normal: What does normal mean to you? Is it good or bad to be normal?

101. Recycle : Take something you’ve written in the past and rewrite it into a completely different piece.

102. Wardrobe: Write about a fashion model or what’s currently in your closet or drawers.

103. Secret Message : Write something with a secret message hidden in between the words. For example, you could make an acrostic poem using the last letters of the word or use secret code words in the poem.

104. Vacation: Write about a vacation you took.

105. Heat: Write about being overheated and sweltering.

106. Spellbinding: Write a magic spell.

107. Collection : Write about collecting something, such as salt shakers, sea shells, or stamps.

108. Taking Chances: Everyone takes a risk at some point in their life. Write about a time when you took a chance and what the result was.

109. Carnival: Write a poem or story or journal entry inspired by a carnival or street fair.

110. Country Mouse: Write about someone who grew up in the country visiting the city for the first time.

111: Questions: Write about questions you have for the universe. Optional: include an answer key.

112. Rushing: Write about moving quickly and doing things fast.

113. Staircase : Use a photo of a staircase or the stairs in your home or a building you love to inspire you.

114. Neighbors: Make up a story or poem about your next door neighbor.

115. Black and Blue: Write about a time you’ve been physically hurt.

116. All Saints: Choose a saint and create a poem about his or her life.

117. Beach Inspired: What’s not to write about the beach?

118. Shoes: What kind of shoes do you wear? Where do they lead your feet?

119. The Ex: Write a poem to someone who is estranged from you.

120. My Point of View: Write in the first person point of view.

121. Stray Animal: Think of the life of a stray cat or dog and write about that.

122. Stop and Stare : Create a poem or story about something you could watch forever.

123. Your Bed: Describe where you sleep each night.

124. Fireworks : Do they inspire you or do you not like the noise and commotion? Write about it.

125. Frozen: Write about a moment in your life you wish you could freeze and preserve.

126. Alone : Do you like to be alone or do you like having company?

127. Know-it-all: Write about something you are very knowledgeable about, for example a favorite hobby or passion of yours.

128. The Promise: Write about a promise you’ve made to someone. Did you keep that promise?

129. Commotion: Write about being overstimulated by a lot of chaos.

130. Read the News Today : Construct a poem or story using a news headline for your first line.

131. Macro: Write a description of an object close-up.

132. Transportation : Write about taking your favorite (or least-favorite) form of transportation.

133. Gadgets: If you could invent a gadget, what would it do? Are there any gadgets that make your life easier?

134: Bring on the Cheese: Write a tacky love poem that is so cheesy, it belongs on top of a pizza.

135. Ladders: Write a story or poem that uses ladders as a symbol.

136. Bizarre Holiday : There is a bizarre holiday for any date! Look up a holiday for today’s date and create a poem in greeting card fashion or write a short story about the holiday to celebrate.

137. Blog-o-sphere : Visit your favorite blog or your feedreader and craft a story, journal entry, or poem based on the latest blog post you read.

138. Mailbox: Create a poem, short story, or journal entry based on a recent item of mail you’ve received.

139. Sharing : Write about sharing something with someone else.

140. Cactus: Write from the viewpoint of a cactus. What’s it like to live in the desert or have a prickly personality?

141. It’s a Sign : Have you seen any interesting road signs lately?

142. Furniture: Write about a piece of furniture in your home.

143. Failure: Write about a time you failed at something. Did you try again or give up completely?

144. Mystical Creatures: Angels or other mystical creatures – use them as inspiration.

145. Flying: Write about having wings and what you would do.

146. Clear and Transparent: Write a poem about being able to see-through something.

147. Break the Silence : Record yourself speaking, then write down what you spoke and revise into a short story or poem.

148. Beat: Listen to music with a strong rhythm or listen to drum loops. Write something that goes along with the beat you feel and hear.

149. Color Palette: Search online for color palettes and be inspired to write by one you resonate with.

150. Magazine: Randomly flip to a page in a magazine and write using the first few words you see as an opening line.

151. The Grass is Greener : Write about switching the place with someone or going to where it seems the “grass is greener”.

152. Mind & Body: Write something that would motivate others to workout and exercise.

153. Shaping Up : Write something that makes a shape on the page…ie: a circle, a heart, a square, etc.

154. Twenty-One: Write about your 21st birthday.

155. Aromatherapy: Write about scents you just absolutely love.

156. Swish, Buzz, Pop : Create a poem that uses Onomatopoeia .

157. What Time is It? Write about the time of day it is right now. What are people doing? What do you usually do at this time each day?

158. Party Animal: Have you ever gone to a party you didn’t want to leave? Or do you hate parties? Write about it!

159: Miss Manners : Use the words “please” and “thank you” in your writing.

160. Cliche: Choose a common cliche, then write something that says the same thing but without using the catch phrase.

161. Eco-friendly : Write about going green or an environmental concern you have.

162. Missing You: Write about someone you miss.

163. Set it Free: Think of a time when you had to let someone or something go to be free…did they come back?

164: Left Out : Write about a time when you’ve felt left out or you’ve noticed someone else feeling as if they didn’t belong.

165. Suitcase: Write about packing for a trip or unpacking from when you arrive home.

166. Fantasy : Write about fairies, gnomes, elves, or other mythical creatures.

167. Give and Receive : Write about giving and receiving.

168. Baker’s Dozen: Imagine the scents and sights of a bakery and write.

169. Treehouse: Write about your own secret treehouse hideaway.

170. Risk: Write about taking a gamble on something.

171. Acrostic : Choose a word and write an acrostic poem where every line starts with a letter from the word.

172. Crossword Puzzle: Open up the newspaper or find a crossword puzzle online and choose one of the clues to use as inspiration for your writing.

173. Silver Lining : Write about the good that happens in a bad situation.

174. Gloves: Write about a pair of gloves – what kind of gloves are they? Who wears them and why?

175. All that Glitters: Write about a shiny object.

176. Jealousy: Write with a theme of envy and jealousy.

177. How Does Your Garden Grow? Write about a flower that grows in an unusual place.

178. Jury Duty : Write a short story or poem that takes place in a courtroom.

179. Gifts: Write about a gift you have given or received.

180. Running: Write about running away from someone or something.

181. Discovery: Think of something you’ve recently discovered and use it as inspiration.

182. Complain: Write about your complaints about something.

183. Gratitude: Write a poem or journal entry that is all about things you are thankful for.

184. Chemistry: Choose an element and write a poem or story that uses that word in one of the lines.

185. Applause: Write about giving someone a standing ovation.

186. Old Endings Into New Beginnings: Take an old poem, story, or journal entry of yours and use the last line and make it the first line of your writing today.

187. Longing: Write about something you very much want to do.

188. I Am: Write a motivational poem or journal entry about positive traits that make you who you are.

189. Rainbow : What is at the end of a rainbow? Or, take a cue from Kermit the Frog, and ask yourself, why are there so many songs about rainbows?

190. Museum: Take some time to visit a nearby museum with your journal. Write about one of the pieces that speaks to you.

191. Cartoon: Think of your favorite cartoon or comic. Write a poem or story that takes place in that setting.

192. Copycat: Borrow a line from a famous public domain poem to craft your own.

193. From the Roof-tops: Imagine you could stand on a rooftop and broadcast a message to everyone below – what would you say?

194. Time Travel: If there was a time period you could visit for a day, where would you go? Write about traveling back in time to that day.

195. Changing Places: Imagine living the day as someone else.

196. Neighborhood: Write about your favorite place in your neighborhood to visit and hang out at.

197. Pirates: Write about a pirate ship.

198. Interview : Write based on a recent interview you’ve read or seen on TV or heard on the radio.

199. Hiding Spaces : Write about places you like to hide things at. What was a favorite hiding spot for you as a child playing hide-and-seek?

200. Extreme Makeover: Imagine how life might be different if you could change your hair color or clothing into something completely opposite from your current style.

201. Empathy: Write about your feelings of empathy or compassion for another person.

202. Opposites: Write a poem or story that ties in together two opposites.

203. Boredom: Write about being bored or make a list of different ways to entertain yourself.

204. Strength : Think of a time when you’ve been physically or emotionally strong and use that as inspiration.

205. Hunger: Write from the perspective of someone with no money to buy food.

206. Greed: Write about someone who always wants more – whether it be money, power, etc. etc.

207. Volcano: Write about an eruption of a volcano.

208. Video Inspiration : Go to Vimeo.com or YouTube.com and watch one of the videos featured on the homepage. Write something based on what you watch.

209. Sneeze: Write about things that make you sneeze.

210. Footsteps on the Moon: Write about the possibility of life in outer-space.

211: Star-crossed: Write a short modern version of the story of Romeo and Juliet or think of real-life examples of lovers who are not allowed to be together to use as inspiration for your writing.

212. Font-tastic: Choose a unique font and type out a poem, story or journal entry using that font.

213. Schedule: Take a look at your calendar and use the schedule for inspiration in writing.

214. Grandparents: Write about a moment in your grandparent’s life.

215. Collage: Go through a magazine and cut out words that grab your attention. Use these words to construct a poem or as a story starter or inspiration for your journal.

216. Oh so Lonely: Write a poem about what you do when you are alone – do you feel lonely or do you enjoy your own company?

217. Waterfall: Think of a waterfall you’ve seen in person or spend some time browsing photos of waterfalls online. Write about the movement, flow, and energy.

218. First Kiss: Write about your first kiss.

219. So Ironic: Write about an ironic situation you’ve been in throughout your life.

220. Limerick: Write a limerick today.

221. Grocery Shopping: Write about an experience at the grocery store.

222. Fashion : Go through a fashion magazine or browse fashion websites online and write about a style you love.

223. So Close: Write about coming close to reaching a goal.

224. Drinks on Me: Write a poem or short story that takes place at a bar.

225. Online Friends: Write an ode to someone online you’ve met and become friends with.

226. Admiration: Is there someone you admire? Write about those feelings.

227. Trash Day: Write from the perspective of a garbage collector.

228. Mailbox: Open your mailbox and write something inspired by one of the pieces of mail you received.

229. Fresh & Clean: Write about how you feel after you take a shower.

230. Energized: Write about how you feel when you’re either at a high or low energy level for the day.

231. Rhyme & No Reason: Make up a silly rhyming poem using made up words.

232. Tech Support: Use computers or a conversation with tech support you’ve had as inspiration.

233. Hotel: Write from the perspective of someone who works at a hotel or staying at a hotel.

234. Underwater: Write about sea creatures and under water life. What’s under the surface of the ocean? What adventures might be waiting?

235. Breathing: Take a few minutes to do some deep breathing relaxation techniques. Once your mind is clear, just write the first few things that you think of.

236. Liar, Liar: Make up a poem or story of complete lies about yourself or someone else.

237. Obituaries: Look at the recent obituaries online or in the newspaper and imagine the life of someone and write about that person.

238. Pocket: Rummage through your pockets and write about what you keep or find in your pockets.

239. Cinquain: Write a cinquain poem, which consists of 5 lines that do not rhyme.

240. Alphabetical: Write a poem that has every letter of the alphabet in it.

241. Comedy Club: Write something inspired by a comedian.

242. Cheater: Write about someone who is unfaithful.

243. Sestina: Give a try to writing a sestina poem.

244. Fight: Write about witnessing two people get in an argument with each other.

245. Social Network : Visit your favorite Social Networking website (ie: Facebook, Pinterest, Google, Twitter, etc.) and write a about a post you see there.

246. Peaceful: Write about something peaceful and serene.

247. In the Clouds: Go cloud watching for the day and write about what you imagine in the clouds.

248. At the Park: Take some time to sit on a park bench and write about the sights, scenes, and senses and emotions you experience.

249. Sonnet: Write a sonnet today.

250. Should, Would, And Could: Write a poem or story using the words should, would, and could.

251. How to: Write directions on how to do something.

252. Alliteration: Use alliteration in your poem or in a sentence in a story.

253. Poker Face: Write about playing a card game.

254. Timer: Set a timer for 5 minutes and just write. Don’t worry about it making sense or being perfect.

255. Dance: Write about a dancer or a time you remember dancing.

256. Write for a Cause: Write a poem or essay that raises awareness for a cause you support.

257. Magic : Write about a magician or magic trick.

258. Out of the Box: Imagine finding a box. Write about opening it and what’s inside.

259. Under the Influence: What is something has impacted you positively in your life?

260. Forgotten Toy : Write from the perspective a forgotten or lost toy.

261. Rocks and Gems: Write about a rock or gemstone meaning.

262. Remote Control: Imagine you can fast forward and rewind your life with a remote control.

263. Symbolism: Think of objects, animals, etc. that have symbolic meaning to you. Write about it.

264. Light at the End of the Tunnel: Write about a time when you saw hope when it seemed like a hopeless situation.

265. Smoke and Fire : “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Use this saying as inspiration to write!

266. Railroad: Write about a train and its cargo or passengers.

267. Clipboard: Write about words you imagine on an office clipboard.

268. Shipwrecked: Write about being stranded somewhere – an island, a bus stop, etc.

269. Quotable: Use a popular quote from a speaker and use it as inspiration for your writing.

270. Mind Map it Out: Create a mind map of words, phrases, and ideas that pop into your head or spend some time browsing the many mind maps online. Write a poem, story, or journal entry inspired by the mind map.

271. Patterns : Write about repeating patterns that occur in life.

272. Scrapbook : Write about finding a scrapbook and the memories it contains.

273. Cure: Write about finding a cure for an illness.

274. Email Subject Lines: Read your email today and look for subject lines that may be good starters for writing inspiration.

275. Wishful Thinking: Write about a wish you have.

276. Doodle : Spend some time today doodling for about 5-10 minutes. Write about the thoughts you had while doodling or create something inspired by your finished doodle.

277. Chalkboard: Imagine you are in a classroom. What does it say on the chalkboard?

278. Sticky: Imagine a situation that’s very sticky, maybe even covered in maple syrup, tape or glue. Write about it!

279. Flashlight : Imagine going somewhere very dark with only a flashlight to guide you.

280. A Far Away Place : Envision yourself traveling to a fictional place, what do you experience in your imaginary journey?

281. On the Farm : Write about being in a country or rural setting.

282. Promise to Yourself: Write about a promise you want to make to yourself and keep.

283. Brick Wall : Write a poem that is about a brick wall – whether literal or figurative.

284. Making a Choice: Write about a time when you had to make a difficult choice.

285. Repeat: Write about a time when you’ve had to repeat yourself or a time when it felt like no one was listening.

286. Outcast : Write about someone who is not accepted by their peers. (for example, the Ugly Ducking)

287. Scary Monsters: Write about a scary (or not-so-scary) monster in your closet or under the bed.

288. Sacrifice: Write about something you’ve sacrificed doing to do something else or help another person.

289. Imperfection: Create a poem that highlights the beauty in being flawed.

290. Birthday Poem: Write a poem inspired by birthdays.

291. Title First : Make a list of potential poem or story titles and choose one to write from.

292. Job Interview : Write about going on a job interview.

293. Get Well : Write a poem that will help someone who is sick feel better quick!

294. Lost in the Crowd: Write about feeling lost in the crowd.

295. Apple a Day: Write about a health topic that interests you.

296. Cravings: Write about craving something.

297. Phobia: Research some common phobias, choose one, and write about it.

298. In the Moment: Write about living in the present moment.

299. Concrete : Write about walking down a sidewalk and what you see and experience.

300. Battle: Write about an epic battle, whether real, fictional or figurative.

301. This Old House : Write about an old house that is abandoned or being renovated.

302. Clutter: Is there a cluttered spot in your home? Go through some of that clutter today and write about what you find or the process of organizing.

303. Go Fly a Kite: Write about flying a kite.

304. On the TV: Flip to a random TV channel and write about the first thing that comes on – even if it is an infomercial!

305. Fruit: Write an ode to your favorite fruit.

306. Long Distance Love: Write about a couple that is separated by distance.

307. Glasses: Write about a pair of eyeglasses or someone wearing glasses.

308. Robotic : Write about a robot.

309. Cute as a Button: Write about something you think is just adorable.

310. Movie Conversation: Use a memorable conversation from a favorite movie to inspire your writing.

311. Easy-Peasy : Write about doing something effortlessly.

312. Idiom: Choose from a list of idioms one that speaks to you and create a poem around that saying or phrase. (Ie: It is raining cats and dogs)

313. Playground: Whether it is the swings or the sandbox or the sliding boards, write about your memories of being on a playground.

314. Romance: Write about romantic things partners can do for each other.

315. Rock Star: Imagine you are a famous rock star. Write about the experience.

316. Come to Life: Imagine ordinary objects have come to life. Write about what they do and say.

317. Airplane: Write about meeting someone on an airplane and a conversation you might have.

318. Health & Beauty: Take some time to peruse your medicine cabinet or the health and beauty aisles at a local store. Write a poem, short story, or journal entry inspired by a product label.

319. Determination: Write about not giving up.

320. Instrumental Inspiration: Listen to some instrumental music and write a poem that matches the mood, beat, and style of the music.

321. Wait Your Turn: Write about having to wait in line.

322. Personality Type : Do you know your personality type? (There are many free quizzes online) – write about what type of personality traits you have.

323. Decade: Choose a favorite decade and write about it. (IE: 1980’s or 1950’s for example)

324. I Believe: Write your personal credo of things you believe in.

325. Lost and Found: Write about a lost object.

326. Say it: Write a poem or story that uses dialogue between two people.

327. The Unsent Letter: Write about a letter that never made it to its recipient.

328. The Windows of the Soul: Write a poem about the story that is told through someone’s eyes.

329. Trial and Error: Write about something you learned the hard way.

330. Escape : Write about where you like to go to escape from it all.

331. What’s Cooking: Write something inspired a favorite food or recipe.

332. Records : Go through your file box and pull out old receipts or records…write something inspired by what you find!

333. Banking: Write about visiting the bank.

334. Sweet Talk: Write about trying to convince someone of something.

335. Serendipity: Write about something that happened by chance in a positive way.

336. Distractions: Write about how it feels when you can’t focus.

337. Corporation: Write about big business.

338. Word of the Day: Go to a dictionary website that has a word of the day and use it in a poem, story or journal entry you write.

339. Pick Me Up: What do you do when you need a pick me up?

340. Unfinished: Write about a project you started but never completed.

341. Forgiveness: Write about a time when someone forgave you or you forgave someone.

342. Weakness: Write about your greatest weakness.

343. Starting: Write about starting a project.

344. Mechanical: Think of gears, moving parts, machines.

345. Random Act of Kindness : Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone or someone has done for you, no matter how small or insignificant it may have seemed.

346. Underground: Imagine living in a home underground and use that as inspiration for writing.

347. Classic Rock: Pick a classic rock love ballad and rewrite it into a story or poem with a similar theme.

348. Night Owl : Write about staying up late at night.

349. Magnetic : Write about attraction to something or someone.

350. Teamwork: Write about working with a team towards a common goal.

351. Roller-coaster : Write about the ups and downs in life.

352. Motivational Poster: Look at some motivational posters online and write a poem or journal entry inspired by your favorite one.

353. Games: Write about the games people play – figuratively or literally.

354. Turning Point: Write about a point in life where things turned for the better or worse.

355. Spellbound: Write about a witch’s spell.

356. Anniversary: Write about the anniversary of a special date.

357. Gamble: Be inspired by a casino or lottery ticket.

358. Picnic: Write about going on a picnic.

359. Garage: Write about some random item you might find in a garage.

360. Review: Review your week, month, or year in a journal entry or poem format.

361. Detective: Write about a detective searching for clues or solving a mystery.

362. Camera: Take your camera for a walk and write based on one of the photographs you take.

363. Visiting : Write about visiting a family member or friend.

364. Trust: Write about putting trust in someone.

365. Congratulations : Did you write a poem, short story, or journal entry every day for a whole year? Write about what you’ve learned and celebrate your achievement!

We hope you enjoy these creative writing prompts! And of course, if you write anything using these prompts, we’d love to know about it! Tell us how you’ll use these everyday creative writing prompts in the comments section below!

And of course, if you’d like the printable ad-free version of these prompts to reference again and again or to use in your classroom, you can find them at our Etsy shop !

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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Summer Prompts to Brighten Up Your Poetry

The sun is shining, the air is warm, the days are long—summer’s here! Take advantage of inspiration this season by leaning into your creativity. When you open your notebook, brighten up your poetry with these summer writing prompts.

Write a poem about a summer rain shower

Explore this seasonal contradiction in a poem. A summer rain shower is an effective metaphor for illustrating the complexities of emotion. Consider a sad time period from your life—were there moments of joy that shined through the darkness? Did these experiences help to propel you forward?

Because this visual is so striking, employ detailed imagery to paint a picture of the rain shower. The cool rain juxtaposed with golden, warm sun on your face. Maybe you dance around, rejoicing as the sun shines through a cloudy sky. Further immerse the reader by including other sensory elements of the scene, like the sound of rain hitting the pavement, for example.

Write a summer-inspired eco-poem

This summer, bring attention to climate change and environmental destruction with an eco-poem . Although this is an urgent, complex problem, reject climate doom by focusing on solutions through your creative writing.

Maybe you’ll focus on re-wilding in your poem, taking your reader on a journey as you cultivate native plants in your community. Or, if you’re passionate about marine ecosystems, help to turn the tides by shining a spotlight on ocean-healing efforts. To bring these issues to life and inspire your readers to advocate for change, be sure to incorporate narrative, vivid imagery, or even anthropomorphism.

Write an acrostic SUMMER poem

List your favorite things about the sunny season in a SUMMER acrostic poem. Since this form has a defined structure, it provides you with a creative starting point as you begin writing.

Connect each line by employing a narrative or by listing summer characteristics that are in a specific category. To achieve this, perhaps you’ll write a story about your version of a perfect summer day. Or, you might list your favorite characteristics of the season, including summer memories, a summer bucket list, or aspects of nature.

Write a nature poem about a summer-time animal

As you venture outdoors this summer, you’re bound to notice seasonal wildlife, which can serve as inspiration for a nature poem. Perhaps you’ll observe goldfinches foraging for sunflower seeds, bees buzzing past your ear, or grasshoppers jumping from one blade of grass to another.

Consider researching the symbolism of whichever animal you choose to write about, which can help deepen your poem’s meaning. As you write, let your poem fly off the page by creatively describing the creature’s behavior in detail. For inspiration on writing poetry about animals and nature, read these Mary Oliver poems .

As you spend your days basking in the summer sun, be sure to check out more of our summer-inspired poetry content, like ocean metaphors to help you navigate rough seas and fun ideas for a summer book club .

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Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Did you know that it’s now easier than ever for poets to print, publish, distribute, and sell their poems in bookstores around the world? That is, if you have poems to publish. If you’re struggling with crafting the very best poems you know you’re capable of and looking for effective tips for writing poetry, this article is for you. We’ll offer tips and tricks on how to improve your poetic skill set, and how to bring those incredible creations to the world.

Table of Contents: • What is a poem? • How do you start writing a poem? • Step 1: Read • Step 2: Know Your Purpose • Step 3: Embrace Imagery, Metaphor, and Other Literary Devices • Step 4: Try combining devices • Step 5: Experiment with different forms • Step 6: Work on your voice and style • Step 7: Drafting and revising • Step 8: Feedback and critique • Step 9: Editing and proofreading • Step 10: Publishing your poems • Your poetic journey awaits

Let’s dive in.

What is a poem?

OK, so you probably already think you know what a poem is, but if you want to improve your skills, it’s worth going back to the basics.

Poetry is like art or music: You know a poem when you see one, but what exactly makes a poem a poem is a bit hard to define. For example, how can the following two works both be considered examples of the same type of literature?

Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary, Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore — While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping, As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door. “‘Tis some visiter,” I muttered, “tapping at my chamber door — Only this and nothing more.”

Excerpt from “The Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe

Untitled [“silencio”] by Eugen Gomringer

Here are some key elements to poetry:

Poems emphasize the musical quality of language.
Poems use condensed language. Every word counts.
Poems often feature — and are often meant to invoke — intense feelings.

Beyond that, poems can come in all shapes and sizes; they can incorporate any number of literary techniques; and they can be as serious or silly as the poet wants.

I like Emily Dickinson’s definition: “If I read a book and it makes my whole body so cold no fire can warm me, I know that is poetry. If I feel physically as if the top of my head were taken off, I know that is poetry. These are the only ways I know it. Is there any other way?”

How do you start writing a poem?

Now that we have a vague-but-poetic working definition of poetry, let’s start writing.

Step 1: Read

OK, scratch that. Before you can start writing poetry, you need to read poetry, and read lots of it. Really try to broaden your horizons so you can experience all the different kinds of poetry that exist in the world. Read classical as well as modern. Read sonnets as well as concrete poems. Read English and American poems as well as poems from other languages and cultures. Figure out what appeals to you and why. See if you can mix and match the bits you like in your own poems.

Step 2: Know Your Purpose

Every poem should be about something and/or should do something. Poems can be funny, they can express ideas and emotions, they can tell stories and teach lessons, they can be forms of protest, or they can be manifestations of love. You need to decide what you want your poem to do and/or be about.

A few key points:

Less is usually more
Expression is more important than grammar or spelling
Show, don’t tell

Step 3: Embrace Imagery, Metaphor, and Other Literary Devices

Literary devices are techniques that writers employ to lift language to new heights. And although prose writing certainly employs them, literary devices are what make poetry sing. Here are some of the popular literary devices in poetry writing. Try to incorporate them into your writing to see how they can make your poems soar.

Metaphor and Simile

These poetic devices compare one object to another to draw similarities (simile is a form of metaphor that uses “like” or “as” to convey the comparison). Metaphor allows the author to express thoughts and emotions that cannot be described through normal language.

My family is the ocean around us. My father is the hurricane, knocking anything and everybody out of his path.

Excerpt from “An Ocean Of Memories” by Kimberly L. Briones

This is another comparative device, similar to metaphor, but where the author takes the time to explain why the comparison is interesting.

The day is done, and the darkness Falls from the wings of night, As a feather is wafted downward From an eagle in his flight.

Excerpt from “The Day is Done” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Perhaps the most iconic device in poetry writing, imagery is the use of figurative language to evoke a sensory experience in the reader. Try to evoke all five senses in your writing.

I wandered lonely as a cloud That floats on high o’er vales and hills, When all at once I saw a crowd, A host of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Excerpt from “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” by William Wordsworth

This poem also includes a nice example of personification, which is the attribution of qualities of one thing to another object. In William Wordsworth’s poem, the daffodils are described as fluttering and dancing.

This next poetry tip is a technique in which one object represents another. In the following poem, Dickinson uses light to represent hope.

A light exists in spring Not present on the year At any other period When March is scarcely here

Excerpt from “A Light Exists in Spring” by Emily Dickinson

Juxtaposition

Placing two ideas next to each other to produce a thought-provoking or ironic effect.

Used to plot on the come up, plot on my brothers, Now I get the tomatoes cropping sideways. Stooped in the coop, gathering eggs. Traded some to the neighbor for fresh bread. I say I’m at peace but it’s still that same dread.

Excerpt from Billy Woods’ “Agriculture”

Sound devices

Techniques like alliteration, assonance, and rhyme and make your poems musical. Let’s check out two examples from E. E. Cummings.

…on a proud round cloud in a white high night

Excerpt from “if a cheerfulest Elephantangelchild should sit”

Alliteration and rhyme:

maggie and milly and molly and may went down to the beach (to play one day)

Excerpt from “maggie and milly and molly and may”

Step 4: Try combining devices

Of course, the best writing incorporates several literary devices at once. Consider this poem, which uses metaphor, imagery, and juxtaposition in just two lines of text:

The apparition of these faces in the crowd: Petals on a wet, black bough.

“In a Station of the Metro” by Ezra Pound

Using literary or rhetorical devices in your poetry can transform even the most mundane experiences into something more.

Step 5: Experiment with different forms

Remember, poems come in all different shapes and sizes, and a good way to improve your poetic skills is to experiment with different poetic forms. Try working with strict forms like haiku, sonnet, or acrostic poem, as well as more open forms like blank verse, free verse, or even concrete poetry.

As liberating as it might seem to write free verse, (“Wow! Anything goes!”) some may find it a bit overwhelming (“Good lord, where do I even start?”). There can be something comforting in having to conform to the structures of a strict form like a sonnet.

Step 6: Work on your voice and style

At the end of the day, each poetry tip listed is meant to help you find your voice and your own creative writing style. After all, you may love the poems of William Carlos Williams, but simply copying his writing style isn’t going to help you make a name for yourself. You need to write poems that only you can write.

Finding your voice may not come straight away. It may take weeks, months, maybe even years to find it. And once you do, you may find your voice as a writer evolving over time. It’s all part of the process.

Step 7: Drafting and revising

You know the old saying: writing is rewriting, and that’s just as true with poetry as it is with prose. Our advice is to write your first draft and set it aside for a month. In the meantime, start writing your next poem. After a month, you’ll have enough distance from the poem to be able to see it with fresh eyes so you can revise as need be.

Step 8: Feedback and critique

Getting unbiased feedback is essential. If you have friends or family members who you can trust to give you an honest critique, then ask them to read your poems. Otherwise, your best bet is to join a writer’s group or hire beta readers online.

Step 9: Editing and proofreading

Once you’ve finally gotten your poems to their final form, it’s important to hire an editor — and one whose specialty is poetry. This isn’t something you should skimp on. Going to Fiverr for a beta reader might be fine, but that’s not the place to find a qualified, professional editor for your poetry. BookBaby offers high-quality professional book editing services — and we employ editors who specialize in poetry. https://www.bookbaby.com/book-editing-services

Step 10: Publishing your poems

Once you’ve collected enough poems, your next step is to publish them and send them out into the world. We’ve got a bunch of tips to help you cross the finish line:

How to Publish a Poetry Book
How To Promote Poetry on Social Media
Can You Really Make Money Selling Poetry?

And finally, if you are looking for a publishing partner that will help you with every step of the process, from book cover design and editing all the way through distribution, sales, and marketing, you can find everything you need with BookBaby’s self-publishing packages .

Your poetic journey awaits

We hope these tips have helped you improve your poetic skills. And remember, if you have any questions about publishing your poetry book, feel free to call BookBaby at 1-877-961-6878 .

Happy writing!

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The British poet Wendy Cope once said, “the reason modern poetry is difficult is so that the poet’s wife can’t understand it.” A funny comment, but it deflects attention from the real reason that few people now read poetry: It’s perceived as difficult and usually irrelevant—except on special occasions like weddings, funerals or Presidential inaugurations.

It has one other fatal handicap: It’s is simply not beautiful anymore. It’s not beautiful, like Robert Frost’s or Emily Dickinson’s are. It tends to lack form, which means no meter, usually no rhyme, or other rhetorical devices that might charge the verse. Most contemporary poetry is flat, so why bother reading it?

Arguably, real poetry is always worth reading. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying writing it is easy: I’ve been working on the project for nearly 60 years, and like being in love, it is a process and never completed. But, if we don’t start somewhere, how will we ever get going?

1. Write a Lot

"The Distressed Poet," 1733–1735, by William Hogarth. Oil on canvas. Birmingham Museums Trust, UK. (Public Domain)

Don’t be parsimonious; write lots of it. Stop thinking that because you’ve written it, it must be good! Stop wanting to be seen as “the poet” and stop taking yourself far too seriously. As Lucille Clifton said, “People wish to be poets more than they wish to write poetry, and that’s a mistake. One should wish to celebrate more than one wishes to be celebrated.” Just write stuff without thinking about an audience or an audience’s approval.

2. Find Role Models

The Poetry of John of the Cross: Love in the Language of Paradox

3. Master Iambic Meter

"The Seeds and Fruits of English Poetry," 1845–1851, by Ford Madox Brown. Oil on canvas. Ashmolean Museum, Oxford. (Public Domain)

Iambic meter forms naturally in language’s structure: An article plus a noun (e.g. the book), a pronoun plus a verb (e.g. I write), a preposition plus a noun (e.g. at home). So, practice, practice, practice writing iambically until you become fluent.

4. Find Your Strength

"Portrait of a Poet," late 18th–early 19th century, by Johann Valentin Sonnenschein. Terracotta. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City. (Public Domain)

Determine the form you should avoid: that is, a form that simply doesn’t work for you. You can waste a lot of time writing in a form you’ll never be great at. To use an analogy, most swimmers have a weak stroke—maybe the butterfly or back stroke. After recognizing your weakness, ask yourself why it doesn’t work for you; what is your exact problem with it?

By recognizing and eliminating your weaknesses, you can identify your strengths. I like to avoid writing haikus and sestinas! The former is too loose for my liking and the latter too constricting.

5. Aspire Higher

This diagram of poetry explains it in terms of the value of thoughts and the structure of the language.

6. Find Your Tribe

"Florentine Poet," 1861, by Alexandre Cabanel. Oil on wood. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City. (Public Domain)

Avoid negative people. If you must be around them, don’t disclose your ideas, activities and goals. This is especially important when, as is often the case, the negative people can’t be avoided, like family members or friends who may not share your passions.

7. Find Inspiration

"Calliope Teaches Music to the Young Orpheus," 1865, by Auguste Alexandre Hirsch. Oil on canvas. Museum of Art and Archeology of Périgord, France. (Public Domain)

Invoke the Muse! Always! Be clear that there is a distinction between writing verse, fine verse perhaps, and writing poetry. Writing verse is like limbering up, warming up, practicing for a race; but it isn’t the race itself.

We all need to limber up—write verse—to see what’s possible. We often use our heads to write verse. But poetry comes from the heart, the seat of the soul, from some deeper, spiritual place within us. We have to give ourselves over to find that place. So, we hypnotize ourselves and the Muse comes.

Weave a circle round him thrice, And close your eyes with holy dread, For he on honey-dew hath fed And drunk the milk of Paradise.

8. Read, Read, Read

"Lady Reading Poetry," 906, by Ishibashi Kazunori. Shimane Art Museum, Matsue, Japan. (Public Domain)

Perhaps obvious, but I feel it’s necessary to state: Read the best in the field of poetry that you feel drawn to write. Keep in mind that the average American reads about five books a year! I suggest reading a lot more than this. I read about 100 books a year; this keeps me fresh.

Please don’t just reread your own poems; that’s not a way to learn the craft. Find some great poets: Milton, Hopkins, and Yeats are three of my favorites. Find yours and imitate them.

9. Collect Ideas

10. aim for beauty.

"Epic Poetry" from "The Four Poems" series, circa 1741, by Claude Augustin Duflos le Jeune after François Boucher. Etching and engraving. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City. (Public Domain)

Poetry should be and is beautiful, but much of what passes for poetry today is the opposite: It’s ugly, victim-laden, or mere political posturing. Worst of all, it’s just chopped-up prose.

“The true poet is ultimately dedicated to beauty,” English author and philosopher G.K. Chesterton said. This succinctly sums up what Keats said: “The excellence of every Art is its intensity, making all disagreeables evaporate, from their being in close relationship with Beauty and Truth.” Go for beauty, whatever topic you are writing about.

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"Epic Poetry" from "The Four Poems" series, circa 1741, by Claude Augustin Duflos le Jeune after François Boucher. Etching and engraving. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City.

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