You may ask, “What is a writing prompt?” A writing prompt is simply a word, idea, image, or statement designed to prompt you to write. We like to think of it as poetry fuel: the spark of creativity is already inside you, and these prompts are the kindling that can help to set your poetry alight. From single word and micropoetry prompts to thematic and image prompts, there is an exercise to fit every mood!
The prompts in this chapter are divided into five distinct styles. Some styles and prompts will speak to you instantly, and the words will pour out of you and onto the page. Other prompts will have you chewing on the end of your pen as you search for that perfect opening line. We encourage you to work through the prompts that don’t come easily or naturally. These more challenging exercises will push you to find new ways of writing, and you may just discover elements of your creativity that you never knew you possessed. It is often in the works that take the most “work” that we find new and meaningful ways of expressing our inner poet. The five prompt styles in this chapter are explained here:
1. Single-Word Prompts: A unique word is presented along with its meaning. Your challenge is to write a poem that speaks to the meaning of the word.
2. Word Jumble Prompts: A set of words is presented, and all of them must be used in your poem. To challenge yourself even further, each prompt also has a bonus activity that you can choose to include in your poem.
3. Image Prompts: A picture is presented to inspire your words. Take your time to absorb the image. Look deeply into the picture and search for the hidden meanings and emotions that it may evoke within you. An image prompt is a great opportunity to “subvert the ordinary” and avoid clichés by writing about something most people would not think of when they see the specific image.
4. Micropoetry Prompts: A theme or idea is presented, and word, line, or syllable limits are set. The length restrictions of these prompts forces you to think carefully about word choice and structure in order to confer meaning and evoke emotion in a very short work.
5. Thematic Prompts: A theme or idea is presented for you to write about. The rule book is normally very simple for these types of prompts: all you need to do is let the prompt inspire your writing. Responses to these prompts are normally long form, and often free verse.
Each of these prompt styles also has an after-the-book activity, so you can continue to use the style once you have completed the prompts in this book. At the end of this book you will find an appendix with websites and journals that you can visit for even more inspiration and guidance.
Now that you know how the prompts work, it’s time to practice. You can use the lines provided underneath a prompt, as well as a separate piece of paper. We have also provided additional space at the back of the book if your poetry cup runneth over! If you are inspired to share your poems based on any of these prompts online, add the hashtag #youpoetpoetrybook to your posts so that we can read and share your poetry. So grab a pen or pencil, and get ready to write!