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How to Write a Poem, Step-by-Step

Sean Glatch  |  May 2, 2024  |  34 Comments

how to write poetry step by step

To learn how to write a poem step-by-step, let’s start where all poets start: the basics.

This article is an in-depth introduction to how to write a poem. We first answer the question, “What is poetry?” We then discuss the literary elements of poetry, and showcase some different approaches to the writing process—including our own seven-step process on how to write a poem step by step.

So, how do you write a poem? Let’s start with what poetry is.

How to Write a Poem: Contents

What Poetry Is

  • Literary Devices

How to Write a Poem, in 7 Steps

How to write a poem: different approaches and philosophies.

  • Okay, I Know How to Write a Good Poem. What Next?

It’s important to know what poetry is—and isn’t—before we discuss how to write a poem. The following quote defines poetry nicely:

“Poetry is language at its most distilled and most powerful.” —Former US Poet Laureate Rita Dove

Poetry Conveys Feeling

People sometimes imagine poetry as stuffy, abstract, and difficult to understand. Some poetry may be this way, but in reality poetry isn’t about being obscure or confusing. Poetry is a lyrical, emotive method of self-expression, using the elements of poetry to highlight feelings and ideas.

A poem should make the reader feel something.

In other words, a poem should make the reader feel something—not by telling them what to feel, but by evoking feeling directly.

Here’s a contemporary poem that, despite its simplicity (or perhaps because of its simplicity), conveys heartfelt emotion.

Poem by Langston Hughes

I loved my friend. He went away from me. There’s nothing more to say. The poem ends, Soft as it began— I loved my friend.

Poetry is Language at its Richest and Most Condensed

Unlike longer prose writing (such as a short story, memoir, or novel), poetry needs to impact the reader in the richest and most condensed way possible. Here’s a famous quote that enforces that distinction:

“Prose: words in their best order; poetry: the best words in the best order.” —Samuel Taylor Coleridge

So poetry isn’t the place to be filling in long backstories or doing leisurely scene-setting. In poetry, every single word carries maximum impact.

Poetry Uses Unique Elements

Poetry is not like other kinds of writing: it has its own unique forms, tools, and principles. Together, these elements of poetry help it to powerfully impact the reader in only a few words.

The elements of poetry help it to powerfully impact the reader in only a few words.

Most poetry is written in verse , rather than prose . This means that it uses line breaks, alongside rhythm or meter, to convey something to the reader. Rather than letting the text break at the end of the page (as prose does), verse emphasizes language through line breaks.

Poetry further accentuates its use of language through rhyme and meter. Poetry has a heightened emphasis on the musicality of language itself: its sounds and rhythms, and the feelings they carry.

These devices—rhyme, meter, and line breaks—are just a few of the essential elements of poetry, which we’ll explore in more depth now.

Understanding the Elements of Poetry

As we explore how to write a poem step by step, these three major literary elements of poetry should sit in the back of your mind:

  • Rhythm (Sound, Rhyme, and Meter)

1. Elements of Poetry: Rhythm

“Rhythm” refers to the lyrical, sonic qualities of the poem. How does the poem move and breathe; how does it feel on the tongue?

Traditionally, poets relied on rhyme and meter to accomplish a rhythmically sound poem. Free verse poems —which are poems that don’t require a specific length, rhyme scheme, or meter—only became popular in the West in the 20th century, so while rhyme and meter aren’t requirements of modern poetry, they are required of certain poetry forms.

Poetry is capable of evoking certain emotions based solely on the sounds it uses. Words can sound sinister, percussive, fluid, cheerful, dour, or any other noise/emotion in the complex tapestry of human feeling.

Take, for example, this excerpt from the poem “Beat! Beat! Drums!” by Walt Whitman:

elements of poetry: sound

Red — “b” sounds

Blue — “th” sounds

Green — “w” and “ew” sounds

Purple — “s” sounds

Orange — “d” and “t” sounds

This poem has a lot of percussive, disruptive sounds that reinforce the beating of the drums. The “b,” “d,” “w,” and “t” sounds resemble these drum beats, while the “th” and “s” sounds are sneakier, penetrating a deeper part of the ear. The cacophony of this excerpt might not sound “lyrical,” but it does manage to command your attention, much like drums beating through a city might sound.

To learn more about consonance and assonance, euphony and cacophony, onomatopoeia , and the other uses of sound, take a look at our article “12 Literary Devices in Poetry.”

https://writers.com/literary-devices-in-poetry

It would be a crime if you weren’t primed on the ins and outs of rhymes. “Rhyme” refers to words that have similar pronunciations, like this set of words: sound, hound, browned, pound, found, around.

Many poets assume that their poetry has to rhyme, and it’s true that some poems require a complex rhyme scheme. However, rhyme isn’t nearly as important to poetry as it used to be. Most traditional poetry forms—sonnets, villanelles , rimes royal, etc.—rely on rhyme, but contemporary poetry has largely strayed from the strict rhyme schemes of yesterday.

There are three types of rhymes:

  • Homophony: Homophones are words that are spelled differently but sound the same, like “tail” and “tale.” Homophones often lead to commonly misspelled words .
  • Perfect Rhyme: Perfect rhymes are word pairs that are identical in sound except for one minor difference. Examples include “slant and pant,” “great and fate,” and “shower and power.”
  • Slant Rhyme: Slant rhymes are word pairs that use the same sounds, but their final vowels have different pronunciations. For example, “abut” and “about” are nearly-identical in sound, but are pronounced differently enough that they don’t completely rhyme. This is also known as an oblique rhyme or imperfect rhyme.

Meter refers to the stress patterns of words. Certain poetry forms require that the words in the poem follow a certain stress pattern, meaning some syllables are stressed and others are unstressed.

What is “stressed” and “unstressed”? A stressed syllable is the sound that you emphasize in a word. The bolded syllables in the following words are stressed, and the unbolded syllables are unstressed:

  • Un• stressed
  • Plat• i• tud• i•nous
  • De •act•i• vate
  • Con• sti •tu• tion•al

The pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables is important to traditional poetry forms. This chart, copied from our article on form in poetry , summarizes the different stress patterns of poetry.

2. Elements of Poetry: Form

“Form” refers to the structure of the poem. Is the poem a sonnet , a villanelle, a free verse piece, a slam poem, a contrapuntal, a ghazal , a blackout poem , or something new and experimental?

Form also refers to the line breaks and stanza breaks in a poem. Unlike prose, where the end of the page decides the line breaks, poets have control over when one line ends and a new one begins. The words that begin and end each line will emphasize the sounds, images, and ideas that are important to the poet.

To learn more about rhyme, meter, and poetry forms, read our full article on the topic:

https://writers.com/what-is-form-in-poetry

3. Elements of Poetry: Literary Devices

“Poetry: the best words in the best order.” — Samuel Taylor Coleridge

How does poetry express complex ideas in concise, lyrical language? Literary devices—like metaphor, symbolism , juxtaposition , irony , and hyperbole—help make poetry possible. Learn how to write and master these devices here:

https://writers.com/common-literary-devices

To condense the elements of poetry into an actual poem, we’re going to follow a seven-step approach. However, it’s important to know that every poet’s process is different. While the steps presented here are a logical path to get from idea to finished poem, they’re not the only tried-and-true method of poetry writing. Poets can—and should!—modify these steps and generate their own writing process.

Nonetheless, if you’re new to writing poetry or want to explore a different writing process, try your hand at our approach. Here’s how to write a poem step by step!

1. Devise a Topic

The easiest way to start writing a poem is to begin with a topic.

However, devising a topic is often the hardest part. What should your poem be about? And where can you find ideas?

Here are a few places to search for inspiration:

  • Other Works of Literature: Poetry doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it’s part of a larger literary tapestry, and can absolutely be influenced by other works. For example, read “The Golden Shovel” by Terrance Hayes , a poem that was inspired by Gwendolyn Brooks’ “We Real Cool.”
  • Real-World Events: Poetry, especially contemporary poetry, has the power to convey new and transformative ideas about the world. Take the poem “A Cigarette” by Ilya Kaminsky , which finds community in a warzone like the eye of a hurricane.
  • Your Life: What would poetry be if not a form of memoir? Many contemporary poets have documented their lives in verse. Take Sylvia Plath’s poem “Full Fathom Five” —a daring poem for its time, as few writers so boldly criticized their family as Plath did.
  • The Everyday and Mundane: Poetry isn’t just about big, earth-shattering events: much can be said about mundane events, too. Take “Ode to Shea Butter” by Angel Nafis , a poem that celebrates the beautiful “everydayness” of moisturizing.
  • Nature: The Earth has always been a source of inspiration for poets, both today and in antiquity. Take “Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver , which finds meaning in nature’s quiet rituals.
  • Writing Exercises: Prompts and exercises can help spark your creativity, even if the poem you write has nothing to do with the prompt! Here’s 24 writing exercises to get you started.

At this point, you’ve got a topic for your poem. Maybe it’s a topic you’re passionate about, and the words pour from your pen and align themselves into a perfect sonnet! It’s not impossible—most poets have a couple of poems that seemed to write themselves.

However, it’s far more likely you’re searching for the words to talk about this topic. This is where journaling comes in.

Sit in front of a blank piece of paper, with nothing but the topic written on the top. Set a timer for 15-30 minutes and put down all of your thoughts related to the topic. Don’t stop and think for too long, and try not to obsess over finding the right words: what matters here is emotion, the way your subconscious grapples with the topic.

At the end of this journaling session, go back through everything you wrote, and highlight whatever seems important to you: well-written phrases, poignant moments of emotion, even specific words that you want to use in your poem.

Journaling is a low-risk way of exploring your topic without feeling pressured to make it sound poetic. “Sounding poetic” will only leave you with empty language: your journal allows you to speak from the heart. Everything you need for your poem is already inside of you, the journaling process just helps bring it out!

Learn more about keeping a daily journal here:

How to Start Journaling: Practical Advice on How to Journal Daily

3. Think About Form

As one of the elements of poetry, form plays a crucial role in how the poem is both written and read. Have you ever wanted to write a sestina ? How about a contrapuntal, or a double cinquain, or a series of tanka? Your poem can take a multitude of forms, including the beautifully unstructured free verse form; while form can be decided in the editing process, it doesn’t hurt to think about it now.

4. Write the First Line

After a productive journaling session, you’ll be much more acquainted with the state of your heart. You might have a line in your journal that you really want to begin with, or you might want to start fresh and refer back to your journal when you need to! Either way, it’s time to begin.

What should the first line of your poem be? There’s no strict rule here—you don’t have to start your poem with a certain image or literary device. However, here’s a few ways that poets often begin their work:

  • Set the Scene: Poetry can tell stories just like prose does. Anne Carson does just this in her poem “Lines,” situating the scene in a conversation with the speaker’s mother.
  • Start at the Conflict : Right away, tell the reader where it hurts most. Margaret Atwood does this in “Ghost Cat,” a poem about aging.
  • Start With a Contradiction: Juxtaposition and contrast are two powerful tools in the poet’s toolkit. Joan Larkin’s poem “Want” begins and ends with these devices. Carlos Gimenez Smith also begins his poem “Entanglement” with a juxtaposition.
  • Start With Your Title: Some poets will use the title as their first line, like Ron Padgett’s poem “Ladies and Gentlemen in Outer Space.”

There are many other ways to begin poems, so play around with different literary devices, and when you’re stuck, turn to other poetry for inspiration.

5. Develop Ideas and Devices

You might not know where your poem is going until you finish writing it. In the meantime, stick to your literary devices. Avoid using too many abstract nouns, develop striking images, use metaphors and similes to strike interesting comparisons, and above all, speak from the heart.

6. Write the Closing Line

Some poems end “full circle,” meaning that the images the poet used in the beginning are reintroduced at the end. Gwendolyn Brooks does this in her poem “my dreams, my work, must wait till after hell.”

Yet, many poets don’t realize what their poems are about until they write the ending line . Poetry is a search for truth, especially the hard truths that aren’t easily explained in casual speech. Your poem, too, might not be finished until it comes across a necessary truth, so write until you strike the heart of what you feel, and the poem will come to its own conclusion.

7. Edit, Edit, Edit!

Do you have a working first draft of your poem? Congratulations! Getting your feelings onto the page is a feat in itself.

Yet, no guide on how to write a poem is complete without a note on editing. If you plan on sharing or publishing your work, or if you simply want to edit your poem to near-perfection, keep these tips in mind.

  • Adjectives and Adverbs: Use these parts of speech sparingly. Most imagery shouldn’t rely on adjectives and adverbs, because the image should be striking and vivid on its own, without too much help from excess language.
  • Concrete Line Breaks: Line breaks help emphasize important words, making certain images and themes clearer to the reader. As a general rule, most of your lines should start and end with concrete words—nouns and verbs especially.
  • Stanza Breaks: Stanzas are like paragraphs to poetry. A stanza can develop a new idea, contrast an existing idea, or signal a transition in the poem’s tone. Make sure each stanza clearly stands for something as a unit of the poem.
  • Mixed Metaphors: A mixed metaphor is when two metaphors occupy the same idea, making the poem unnecessarily difficult to understand. Here’s an example of a mixed metaphor: “a watched clock never boils.” The meaning can be discerned, but the image remains unclear. Be wary of mixed metaphors—though some poets (like Shakespeare) make them work, they’re tricky and often disruptive.
  • Abstractions: Above all, avoid using excessively abstract language. It’s fine to use the word “love” 2 or 3 times in a poem, but don’t use it twice in every stanza. Let the imagery in your poem express your feelings and ideas, and only use abstractions as brief connective tissue in otherwise-concrete writing.

Lastly, don’t feel pressured to “do something” with your poem. Not all poems need to be shared and edited. Poetry doesn’t have to be “good,” either—it can simply be a statement of emotions by the poet, for the poet. Publishing is an admirable goal, but also, give yourself permission to write bad poems, unedited poems, abstract poems, and poems with an audience of one. Write for yourself—editing is for the other readers.

Poetry is the oldest literary form, pre-dating prose, theater, and the written word itself. As such, there are many different schools of thought when it comes to writing poetry. You might be wondering how to write a poem through different methods and approaches: here’s four philosophies to get you started.

How to Write a Poem: Poetry as Emotion

If you asked a Romantic Poet “what is poetry?”, they would tell you that poetry is the spontaneous emotion of the soul.

The Romantic Era viewed poetry as an extension of human emotion—a way of perceiving the world through unbridled creativity, centered around the human soul. While many Romantic poets used traditional forms in their poetry, the Romantics weren’t afraid to break from tradition, either.

To write like a Romantic, feel—and feel intensely. The words will follow the emotions, as long as a blank page sits in front of you.

How to Write a Poem: Poetry as Stream of Consciousness

If you asked a Modernist poet, “What is poetry?” they would tell you that poetry is the search for complex truths.

Modernist Poets were keen on the use of poetry as a window into the mind. A common technique of the time was “Stream of Consciousness,” which is unfiltered writing that flows directly from the poet’s inner dialogue. By tapping into one’s subconscious, the poet might uncover deeper truths and emotions they were initially unaware of.

Depending on who you are as a writer, Stream of Consciousness can be tricky to master, but this guide covers the basics of how to write using this technique.

How to Write a Poem: Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice of documenting the mind, rather than trying to control or edit what it produces. This practice was popularized by the Beat Poets , who in turn were inspired by Eastern philosophies and Buddhist teachings. If you asked a Beat Poet “what is poetry?”, they would tell you that poetry is the human consciousness, unadulterated.

To learn more about the art of leaving your mind alone , take a look at our guide on Mindfulness, from instructor Marc Olmsted.

https://writers.com/mindful-writing

How to Write a Poem: Poem as Camera Lens

Many contemporary poets use poetry as a camera lens, documenting global events and commenting on both politics and injustice. If you find yourself itching to write poetry about the modern day, press your thumb against the pulse of the world and write what you feel.

Additionally, check out these two essays by Electric Literature on the politics of poetry:

  • What Can Poetry Do That Politics Can’t?
  • Why All Poems Are Political (TL;DR: Poetry is an urgent expression of freedom).

Okay, I Know How to Write a Poem. What Next?

Poetry, like all art forms, takes practice and dedication. You might write a poem you enjoy now, and think it’s awfully written 3 years from now; you might also write some of your best work after reading this guide. Poetry is fickle, but the pen lasts forever, so write poems as long as you can!

Once you understand how to write a poem, and after you’ve drafted some pieces that you’re proud of and ready to share, here are some next steps you can take.

Publish in Literary Journals

Want to see your name in print? These literary journals house some of the best poetry being published today.

https://writers.com/best-places-submit-poetry-online

Assemble and Publish a Manuscript

A poem can tell a story. So can a collection of poems. If you’re interested in publishing a poetry book, learn how to compose and format one here:

https://writers.com/poetry-manuscript-format

How to Write a Poem: Join a Writing Community

Writers.com is an online community of writers, and we’d love it if you shared your poetry with us! Join us on Facebook and check out our upcoming poetry courses .

Poetry doesn’t exist in a vacuum, it exists to educate and uplift society. The world is waiting for your voice, so find a group and share your work!

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Sean Glatch

34 comments.

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super useful! love these articles 💕

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Finally found a helpful guide on Poetry’. For many year, I have written and filed numerous inspired pieces from experiences and moment’s of epiphany. Finally, looking forward to convertinb to ‘poetry format’. THANK YOU, KINDLY. 🙏🏾

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Indeed, very helpful, consize. I could not say more than thank you.

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I’ve never read a better guide on how to write poetry step by step. Not only does it give great tips, but it also provides helpful links! Thank you so much.

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Thank you very much, Hamna! I’m so glad this guide was helpful for you.

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Best guide so far

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Very inspirational and marvelous tips

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Thank you super tips very helpful.

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I have never gone through the steps of writing poetry like this, I will take a closer look at your post.

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Beautiful! Thank you! I’m really excited to try journaling as a starter step x

[…] How to Write a Poem, Step-by-Step […]

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This is really helpful, thanks so much

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Extremely thorough! Nice job.

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Thank you so much for sharing your awesome tips for beginner writers!

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People must reboot this and bookmark it. Your writing and explanation is detailed to the core. Thanks for helping me understand different poetic elements. While reading, actually, I start thinking about how my husband construct his songs and why other artists lack that organization (or desire to be better). Anyway, this gave me clarity.

I’m starting to use poetry as an outlet for my blogs, but I also have to keep in mind I’m transitioning from a blogger to a poetic sweet kitty potato (ha). It’s a unique transition, but I’m so used to writing a lot, it’s strange to see an open blog post with a lot of lines and few paragraphs.

Anyway, thanks again!

I’m happy this article was so helpful, Eternity! Thanks for commenting, and best of luck with your poetry blog.

Yours in verse, Sean

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One of the best articles I read on how to write poems. And it is totally step by step process which is easy to read and understand.

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Thanks for the step step explanation in how to write poems it’s a very helpful to me and also for everyone one. THANKYOU

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Totally detailed and in a simple language told the best way how to write poems. It is a guide that one should read and follow. It gives the detailed guidance about how to write poems. One of the best articles written on how to write poems.

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what a guidance thank you so much now i can write a poem thank you again again and again

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The most inspirational and informative article I have ever read in the 21st century.It gives the most relevent,practical, comprehensive and effective insights and guides to aspiring writers.

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Thank you so much. This is so useful to me a poetry

[…] Write a short story/poem (Here are some tips) […]

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It was very helpful and am willing to try it out for my writing Thanks ❤️

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Thank you so much. This is so helpful to me, and am willing to try it out for my writing .

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Absolutely constructive, direct, and so useful as I’m striving to develop a recent piece. Thank you!

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thank you for your explanation……,love it

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Really great. Nothing less.

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I can’t thank you enough for this, it touched my heart, this was such an encouraging article and I thank you deeply from my heart, I needed to read this.

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great teaching Did not know all that in poetry writing

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This was very useful! Thank you for writing this.

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After reading a Charles Bukowski poem, “My Cats,” I found you piece here after doing a search on poetry writing format. Your article is wonderful as is your side article on journaling. I want to dig into both and give it another go another after writing poetry when I was at university. Thank you!

Thanks for reading, Vicki! Let us know how we can support your writing journey. 🙂

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When You Write

Poetry Writing Templates: Tools To Help You Write Your Best Poems

Are you tired of feeling stuck in your poetry writing? Do you find yourself struggling to come up with new ideas or fresh language? Well, fear not! Poetry writing templates may just be the tool you need to take your writing to the next level.

By utilizing the structure and guidelines provided by these templates, you can experiment with different poetic forms and free verse structures, ultimately creating more dynamic and engaging poems.

Whether you consider yourself a seasoned poet or a beginner, these templates can help you improve your craft and inspire new ideas.

So, let’s dive in and explore how poetry writing templates can help you write your best poems yet!

Key Takeaways

  • Poetry writing templates provide structure and guidelines for different poetic forms, making it easier to stay focused on your message and create a clear and concise theme.
  • Traditional poetic forms like Sonnets, Haikus, and Villanelles can help structure your poems and create a more impactful message, but require mastery of meter and rhyme scheme.
  • Contemporary free verse poetry allows for experimentation with form and structure, characterized by its absence of rhyme and meter.
  • Experimenting with different forms and styles, personalization techniques, and creative prompts can help expand your poetic repertoire and take your poetry to the next level.

Traditional Poetic Forms

If you want to improve your poetry writing skills, it’s time to explore traditional poetic forms like Sonnets, Haikus, and Villanelles. These templates will help you structure your poems and create a more impactful message.

With Sonnets, you can follow the 14-line structure to express your emotions and tell a story.

Haikus, on the other hand, are perfect for capturing a moment in time with just 17 syllables.

Lastly, Villanelles can help you repeat a key message throughout your poem while adding lyrical depth.

You’ll find that sonnets can be a challenging but rewarding form of poetry to master. The sonnet is a 14-line poem that originated in Italy and was popularized by Shakespeare in England.

There are two main types of sonnets: Shakespearean, which follows the rhyme scheme ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, and Petrarchan, which follows the rhyme scheme ABBA ABBA CDCDCD or CDECDE.

The key to writing a successful sonnet is mastering the meter. Sonnets are typically written in iambic pentameter, which means each line has ten syllables and follows a pattern of unstressed/stressed syllables. However, some poets choose to write sonnets in trochaic tetrameter, which follows a pattern of stressed/unstressed syllables.

Regardless of the meter you choose, writing a sonnet requires skill and practice. But once you’ve mastered this form, you’ll have a powerful tool in your poetic arsenal.

Haikus are the perfect way to capture the essence of a moment in just three short lines, creating vivid and powerful imagery in the reader’s mind.

Nature inspired haikus are particularly powerful as they allow us to connect with the natural world on a deeper level. They can transport us to a serene, peaceful place with just a few words.

Haikus can also be used for emotional expression. They’re a powerful tool to convey complex emotions in a concise and impactful way. Whether it’s joy, sadness, or even anger, haikus can help us express our feelings in a way that’s both beautiful and cathartic.

So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by emotion, try writing a haiku and see how it helps you process those feelings.

Villanelles

Listen closely to the rhythmic repetition of the refrains in villanelles, allowing the words to wrap around you like a warm embrace.

Villanelles are a form of poetry that originated in France and are known for their intricate repetition of lines. It may seem daunting at first, but revisiting villanelles can help you master the form and break tradition by modernizing it.

To start, familiarize yourself with the structure of a villanelle. It consists of 19 lines with a fixed rhyme scheme and two repeating refrains. The first and third lines of the first stanza become the refrain lines, and they alternate as the last line of each subsequent tercet until the final quatrain where they both appear again.

Once you have grasped this, you can start breaking the rules and experimenting with modernizing villanelles. Try using unconventional refrains or changing the rhyme scheme to make it your own.

With some practice and creativity, you can create a fresh and innovative take on this traditional form.

Contemporary Free Verse Structures

If you’re looking for a way to break free from traditional structures, contemporary free verse poetry can be a canvas where your thoughts flow like a river, unencumbered by rhyme and meter. This type of poetry is characterized by its absence of rhyme and meter, which allows the writer to experiment with form and structure.

Contemporary free verse poetry is all about expressing your thoughts and emotions in a way that feels natural to you, without the constraints of a preconceived structure. One popular form of contemporary free verse poetry is blank verse, which is a form of poetry that uses unrhymed lines of iambic pentameter. This structure allows for a natural flow of language and can be used to create a sense of rhythm and musicality in your poetry.

Another popular form of contemporary free verse poetry is concrete poetry, which uses the physical arrangement of the words on the page to create meaning. This type of poetry allows the writer to experiment with the visual aspect of their work, creating a unique and immersive experience for the reader.

So if you’re looking to break free from traditional structures and experiment with new forms of poetry, contemporary free verse structures may be just what you need.

Using Poetry Writing Templates to Improve Your Craft

You’ve been exploring the various contemporary free verse structures and experimenting with different ways to structure your poems.

But have you ever considered using customizable templates to improve your poetry writing? Templates are an excellent tool for streamlining your creative process, providing a structure for your thoughts, and helping you create more polished poems.

Customizable templates allow you to choose the structure that best suits your style and subject matter. You can select the number of stanzas, lines per stanza, and even the rhyme scheme. This gives you a starting point for your poem and helps you avoid the dreaded writer’s block.

Using a template can also help you stay focused on your message, ensuring that your poem has a clear and concise theme. The benefits of structure are numerous, and customizable templates provide an easy and effective way to incorporate it into your poetry writing.

So why not give it a try and see how it can take your poetry to the next level?

Tips for Experimenting with Poetry Writing Templates

Experimenting with customizable structures allows for greater creativity and flexibility in crafting meaningful verses. Creative prompts are a great way to spark inspiration and can be tailored to fit your personal writing style.

By using templates, you can focus on the content of your poem without worrying too much about structure. This will allow you to experiment with different forms and styles that you may not have considered before. Personalization techniques are another way to make a template your own.

Changing the length of lines, syllable count, or even the order of stanzas can completely transform the meaning of a poem. Don’t be afraid to play around with the template until it feels like it truly embodies your voice and message. The beauty of poetry is that there’s no one right way to do it, so don’t be afraid to take risks.

By using customizable structures and personalization techniques, you can push the boundaries of traditional poetry and create something truly unique.

So there you have it, aspiring poets! With the help of poetry writing templates, you can elevate your writing and explore new forms and structures.

From traditional poetic forms to contemporary free verse, there is a template out there to suit every writer’s style and preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different templates and techniques, and remember that writing poetry is all about expressing yourself and your unique voice.

With the right tools and a bit of practice, you can create truly breathtaking and impactful works of art. So go forth and write, and let your imagination run wild.

Recommended Reading...

Muse of poetry: understanding the inspiration behind poetic creation, onomatopoeia in poetry: exploring the use of sound words in poems, play vs screenplay writing: key differences and similarities, poems that rhyme: understanding and writing rhyming poetry.

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How to Write a Poem

How to Write a Poem: In 7 Practical Steps with Examples

Learn how to write a poem through seven easy to follow steps that will guide you through writing completed poem. Ignite a passion for poetry!

poem writing template

This article is a practical guide for writing a poem, and the purpose is to help you  write a poem!  By completing the seven steps below, you will create the first draft of a simple poem. You can go on to refine your poetry in any way you like. The important thing is that you’ve got a poem under your belt. 

At the bottom of the post, I’ll provide more resources on writing poetry. I encourage you to explore different forms and structures and continue writing poetry on your own. Hopefully, writing a poem will spark, in you, a passion for creative writing and language. 

Let’s get started with writing a poem in seven simple steps: 

  • Brainstorm & Free-write
  • Develop a theme
  • Create an extended metaphor
  • Add figurative language
  • Plan your structure
  • Write your first draft
  • Read, re-read & edit

Now we’ll go into each step in-depth. And, if your feeling up to it, you can plan and write your poem as we go.

Step 1: Brainstorm and Free-write 

Find what you want to write about 

how to write poetry brainstorming

Before you begin writing, you need to choose a subject to write about. For our purposes, you’ll want to select a specific topic. Later, you’ll be drawing a comparison between this subject and something else. 

When choosing a subject, you’ll want to write about something you feel passionately about. Your topic can be something you love, like a person, place, or thing. A subject can also be something you struggle with . Don’t get bogged down by all the options; pick something. Poets have written about topics like: 

And of course…  cats   

 Once you have your subject in mind, you’re going to begin freewriting about that subject. Let’s say you picked your pet iguana as your subject. Get out a sheet of paper or open a word processor. Start writing everything that comes to mind about that subject. You could write about your iguana’s name, the color of their skin, the texture of their scales, how they make you feel, a metaphor that comes to mind. Nothing is off-limits. 

Write anything that comes to mind about your subject. Keep writing until you’ve entirely exhausted everything you have to say about the subject. Or, set a timer for several minutes and write until it goes off. Don’t worry about things like spelling, grammar, form, or structure. For now, you want to get all your thoughts down on paper. 

ACTION STEPS: 

  • Grab a scratch paper, or open a word processor 
  • Pick a subject- something you’re passionate about
  • Write everything that comes to mind about your topic without editing or structuring your writing 
  • Make sure this free-writing is uninterrupted
  • Optional-  set a timer and write continuously for 5 or 10 minutes about your subject 

Step 2: Develop a Theme 

What lesson do you want to teach? 

develop a theme for your poem

Poetry often has a theme or a message the poet would like to convey to the reader. Developing a theme will give your writing purpose and focus your effort. Look back at your freewriting and see if a theme, or lesson, has developed naturally, one that you can refine. 

Maybe, in writing about your iguana, you noticed that you talked about your love for animals and the need to preserve the environment. Or, perhaps you talk about how to care for a reptile pet. Your theme does not need to be groundbreaking. A theme only needs to be a message that you would like to convey. 

Now, what is your theme? Finish the following statement: 

The lesson I want to teach my readers about  (your subject)  is ______

Ex. I want to teach my readers that spring days are lovely and best enjoyed with loving companions or family. 

  • Read over the product of your free-writing exercise.  
  • Brainstorm a lesson you would like to teach readers about your subject. 
  • Decide on one thing that is essential for your reader to know about your topic.
  • Finish the sentence stem above. 

Step 3: Create an (extended) Metaphor 

Compare your subject to another, unlike thing. 

Poem: creating a metaphor

To write this poem, you will compare your subject to something it, seemingly, has nothing in common with. When you directly compare two, unlike things, you’re using a form of figurative language called a metaphor. But, we’re going to take this metaphor and extend it over one or two stanzas- Stanzas are like paragraphs, a block of text in a poem- Doing this will create an extended metaphor. 

Using a metaphor will reinforce your theme by making your poem memorable for your reader. Keep that in mind when you’re choosing the thing you’d like to compare your subject to. Suppose your topic is pet iguanas, and your theme is that they make fantastic pets. In that case, you’ll want to compare iguanas to something positive. Maybe you compare them to sunshine or a calm lake. This metaphor does the work or conveying your poem’s central message. 

  • Identify something that is, seemingly, unlike your subject that you’ll use to compare.
  • On a piece of paper, make two lists or a Venn diagram. 
  • Write down all the ways that you’re subject and the thing you’ll compare it to are alike. 
  • Also, write down all the ways they are unalike.
  • Try and make both lists as comprehensive as possible.  

Step 4: Add more Figurative Language 

Make your writing sound poetic. 

how to write poetry: figurative language

Figurative language is a blanket term that describes several techniques used to impart meaning through words. Figurative language is usually colorful and evocative. We’ve talked about one form of figurative language already- metaphor and extended metaphor. But, here are a few others you can choose from.

This list is, by no means, a comprehensive one. There are many other forms of figurative language for you to research. I’ll link a resource at the bottom of this page. 

Five types of figurative language:

  • Ex. Frank was as giddy as a schoolgirl to find a twenty-dollar bill in his pocket. 
  • Frank’s car engine whined with exhaustion as he drove up the hill.  
  • Frank was so hungry he could eat an entire horse. 
  • Nearing the age of eighty-five, Frank felt as old as Methuselah.  
  • Frank fretted as he frantically searched his forlorn apartment for a missing Ficus tree. 

There are many other types of figurative language, but those are a few common ones. Pick two of the five I’ve listed to include in your poem. Use more if you like, but you only need two for your current poem.   

  • Choose two of the types of figurative language listed above 
  • Brainstorm ways they can fit into a poem 
  • Create example sentences for the two forms of figurative language you chose

Step 5: Plan your Structure 

How do you want your poem to sound and look? 

Poetry stru

If you want to start quickly, then you can choose to write a free-verse poem. Free verse poems are poems that have no rhyme scheme, meter, or structure. In a free verse poem, you’re free to write unrestricted. If you’d like to explore free verse poetry, you can read my article on how to write a prose poem, which is a type of free verse poem. 

Read more about prose poetry here.  

However, some people enjoy the support of structure and rules. So, let’s talk about a few of the tools you can use to add a form to your poem. 

Tools to create poetic structure:

Rhyme Scheme – rhyme scheme refers to the pattern of rhymes used in a poem. The sound at the end of each line determines the rhyme scheme. Writers label words with letters to signify rhyming terms, and this is how rhyme schemes are defined. 

If you had a four-line poem that followed an ABAB scheme, then lines 1 and 3 would rhyme, and lines 2 and 4 would rhyme. Here’s an example of an ABAB rhyme scheme from an excerpt of Robert Frost’s poem,  Neither Out Far Nor In Deep: 

‘The people along the sand (A)

All turn and look one way. (B) 

They turn their back on the land. (A) 

They look at the sea all day. (B) 

Check out the Rhyme Zone.com if you need help coming up with a rhyme!

Read more about the ins and outs of rhyme scheme here.

Meter – a little more advanced than rhyme scheme, meter deals with a poem’s rhythm expressed through stressed and unstressed syllables. Meter can get pretty complicated ,

Check out this article if you’d like to learn more about it.

Stanza – a stanza is a group of lines placed together as a single unit in a poem. A stanza is to a poem what a paragraph is to prose writing. Stanzas don’t have to be the same number of lines throughout a poem, either. They can vary as paragraphs do. 

Line Breaks – these are the breaks between stanzas in a poem. They help to create rhythm and set stanzas apart from one another. 

  • Decide if you want to write a structured poem or use free verse
  • Brainstorm rhyming words that could fit into a simple scheme 
  • Plan out your stanzas and line breaks (small stanzas help emphasize important lines in your poem) 

Step 6: Write Your Poem 

Combine your figurative language, extended metaphor, and structure.

How to Write Poetry

Poetry is always unique to the writer. And, when it comes to poetry, the “rules” are flexible. In 1965 a young poet named Aram Saroyan wrote a poem called  lighght.  It goes like this- 

That’s it. Saroyan was paid $750 for his poem. You may or may not believe that’s poetry, but a lot of people accept it as just that. My point is, write the poem that comes to you. I won’t give you a strict set of guidelines to follow when creating your poetry. But, here are a few things to consider that might help guide you:

  • Compare your subject to something else by creating an extended metaphor 
  • Try to relate a theme or a simple lesson for your reader
  • Use at least two of the figurative language techniques from above 
  • Create a meter or rhyme scheme (if you’re up to it) 
  • Write at least two stanzas and use a line break 

Still, need some help? Here are two well-known poems that are classic examples of an extended metaphor. Read over them, determine what two, unlike things, are being compared, and for what purpose? What theme is the poet trying to convey? What techniques can you steal? (it’s the sincerest form of flattery) 

“Hope” is a thing with feathers  by Emily Dickenson.

“The Rose that Grew From Concrete”  by Tupac Shakur. 

  • Write the first draft of your poem.
  • Don’t stress. Just get the poem on paper. 

Step 7: Read, Re-read, Edit 

Read your poem, and edit for clarity and focus .

Edit your poem

When you’re finished, read over your poem. Do this out loud to get a feel for the poem’s rhythm. Have a friend or peer read your poem, edit for grammar and spelling. You can also stretch grammar rules, but do it with a purpose. 

You can also ask your editor what they think the theme is to determine if you’ve communicated it well enough. 

Now you can rewrite your poem. And, remember, all writing is rewriting. This editing process will longer than it did to write your first draft. 

  • Re-read your poem out loud. 
  • Find a trusted friend to read over your poem.
  • Be open to critique, new ideas, and unique perspectives. 
  • Edit for mistakes or style.

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Continued reading on Poetry

poem writing template

A Poetry Handbook

“With passion, wit, and good common sense, the celebrated poet Mary Oliver tells of the basic ways a poem is built—meter and rhyme, form and diction, sound and sense. She talks of iambs and trochees, couplets and sonnets, and how  and why  this should matter to anyone writing or reading poetry.”

Masterclass.com- Poetry 101: What is Meter?

Poetry Foundation- You Call That Poetry?!

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Teaching Poetry

Poem templates pdf, poem templates pdf - print and try it yourself, do you want to write a poem, but you’re unsure where to start give these poetry templates a try. based off some poems on the site, these templates will give you the structure you need and the inspiration you crave..

Tynea Lewis

Poetry Templates PDF for Beginners

Reading poems written by other people can be the perfect inspiration to write your own. Perhaps it's the theme that catches your attention. Maybe it's the structure. Maybe it's the humor. Whatever it is, don't be afraid to try your hand at following in the author's footsteps.

To give you a nudge, we have crafted templates that have been inspired by poems on this website. They can be used for classroom use or your own personal writing endeavors. Search these poems and find something that speaks to you. Then click on the PDF link to print out a document that will help you frame a similar poem that has your own flair added to it.

It might help to have both the template and the completed poem side by side so you can refer back to how the author crafted the original. That might help if you get stuck.

Get those creative juices flowing, and try something new.

The more you write poems with support, the more comfortable you'll become to step out on your own and find your own voice. We hope these writing exercises help you take a step in that direction. 

Four Poem Templates

1. That's Life

© Danny Joyce

This life is a wonderful gift .. accept it, embrace it. It starts with a new day .. wake up and greet it. Life is a challenge .. take it head on and meet it. Full of opportunity .. use it, don't waste it. This life is a mystery .. unfold it, solve it. It starts with meaning .. wake up and understand it. Life is a goal .. take it head on and achieve it. Full of promise .. fulfill it but keep it. This life is a tragedy .. face it, accept it. It starts with pain .. wake up and help numb it. Life is a struggle .. take it head on and fight it. Full of sorrow .. sorry, just overcome it. This life is precious .. hold it, treasure it, It starts with hope .. wake up and feel it. Life is a choice .. take it head on and make it. Full of knowledge .. use it, don't abuse it. This life is adventurous .. enjoy it, explore it. It starts with a duty .. wake up and perform it. Life is love .. take it full on and love it. Full of beauty .. praise it and behold it. That life is life .. live it, learn and grow Life is good .. be good with all that you know.

Source: That's Life by Danny Joyce

Think about how you would describe life. What are the good and bad things we face in this world? What advice would you give someone to make the most of it? Brainstorm using these ideas, and then give this poem a try yourself.

Download PDF -Try It Yourself ("That's Life")

2. Just Like

© Katherine Ayala

Just like a glass my heart is broken Just like a star you light up my life Just like a rose that blooms it's beauty Just like the rain that never stops crying Just like another human being you let go of me Just like others you broke my heart Just like clouds you are soft Just like bullets that you shot into my heart

Source: Just Like by Katherine Ayala

In this poem, the author compares her situation to various objects. Our experiences in life can be compared to objects. For example, if someone is bright and cheery, we might compare her to a ray of sunshine. If someone is mean, we might compare those words to the hiss of a snake.

This poem is all about using similes.

To create your own, think about a particular person or situation in life. It could be good or bad. Think about words that describe that event. Now, what objects could be used to describe those moments?

Download PDF -Try It Yourself ("Just Like")

3. Four Words

© Sue Morton

Despair. falling deeper & deeper each day. wondering what else I'll lose and wondering if it'll go away. Denial It's something I sometimes feel. that the pain I have inside could not possibly be real. Sadness. Not something that disappears despite what I wish for I have never ending tears. Blame. That's what I often do I will never forgive myself. My heart's permanently broken in two. These four simple words to describe my feelings inside. wishing I could crawl into myself to stay forever and hide. There are days I wonder if these feelings will go. If it's possible for me to not feel so low.

Source: Four Words by Sue Morton

While this poem included emotions that come from a terrible event, you could also describe how you feel when something great happens. First, think of 4 words that best describe your emotions in that moment. Then think about what is happening because of those emotions or why you're experiencing them. Once you have started brainstorming, write your own version of this poem.

Download PDF- Try It Yourself ("Four Words")

4. Haiku Year

© Paul Holmes

JANUARY Delightful display Snowdrops bow their pure white heads To the sun's glory. FEBRUARY Fresh green buds appear Indicating spring will soon Energize us all. MARCH Lambs gambol in fields Frisky with the joys of life Bleating happily. APRIL Bluebells stand so proud Beneath trees so sparsely dressed Fresh green leaves unfold. MAY Much awaited sound Echoes heard amid dense trees Cuckoo has arrived. JUNE Parks and gardens burst With sounds and vibrant colours Perfect harmony. JULY Beaches become full Of families having fun In sand and big waves. AUGUST Ripe golden harvest Burning sun in azure skies Labours rewarded. SEPTEMBER Swallows congregate On telephone wires ready To migrate down south. OCTOBER Red and gold leaves fall, Crunchy as cornflakes beneath Feet on a crisp morn. NOVEMBER Frosty webs sparkle In the early morning sun Brightly bejeweled. DECEMBER First few flakes of snow Dust gardens like icing on A chocolate cake.

Source: Haiku Year by Paul Holmes

To create your own "A Haiku Year," think of a way to describe each of the twelve months. For each month you will write a haiku, which is a 3 line poem that consists of 17 syllables.

  • Line 1: 5 syllables
  • Line 2: 7 syllables
  • Line 3: 5 syllables

Use these questions to help generate ideas:

  • What important moment is celebrated each month?
  • What is the season of that month?
  • How would you describe nature each month?

Download PDF -Try It Yourself ("Haiku Year")

Check out our additional science templates .

If you're looking for poems to use with your social studies classes, they can be found here .

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How to Write a Poem — A Step by Step Guide Featured

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How to Write a Poem — A Step-by-Step Guide

In the complex world of human communication, poetry is one of the most impactful elements. It combines our ideas, feelings, and life experiences in a beautifully arranged sequence of words. It’s an art form that, when well-executed, can be a method for emotional release, a way for intellectual engagement, and a means to see life from different viewpoints.

Yet, the desire to write poetry often finds itself at odds with the daunting task of putting abstract feelings into concrete verse. This article will illuminate the path toward learning how to write a poem.

How to Write a Poem

First, let’s define poetry.

Now that we've established the importance and power of poetry, let's delve deeper into its core elements and understand what truly makes a poem by looking at the poetry definition.

POETRY DEFINITION

What is poetry.

Poetry is a literary art form that uses rhythm, rhyme, meter, and figurative language to express human experiences with emotional depth and artistic elegance. Poems are crafted compositions of words, arranged to convey specific themes or emotions, often with a rhythmic pattern distinct from prose. They can vary in structure from tightly defined forms like sonnets to more flexible free verse, all aiming to evoke emotion and provoke thought. Using metaphors, similes, personification, and imagery, poetry communicates thoughts, feelings, and perspectives in a personal yet universal way, offering unique insights and challenging readers to see the world differently.

Characteristics of poetry:

  • Figurative Language

Learning How to Write a Poem

Elements of a poem.

Poetry is a craft that employs various elements to create a unique and captivating work of art. These elements interact with each other to convey the poet's message and evoke the desired emotional response from the reader. Let's delve into these elements one by one.

Understanding Verses and Stanzas

Verses and stanzas are the basic building blocks of a poem. A verse is a single line in a poem, while a stanza is a group of verses arranged together to form a distinct segment within the poem, much like a paragraph in prose . 

The arrangement of stanzas and verses can influence the flow and rhythm of the poem, as well as its visual presentation on the page.

Stanzas and Verses  •  Tips for Writing Poetry

The role of rhythm and rhyme.

Rhythm and rhyme are musical elements of poetry. Rhythm refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line, which gives the poem its beat. Rhyme, on the other hand, is the repetition of similar sounds in words, usually at the end of lines.

These elements add a melodic quality to the poem and can enhance its emotional impact.

Significance of Imagery and Metaphor

Imagery and metaphor are powerful tools for conveying meaning in poetry. Metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unrelated things, providing deeper insight or highlighting their shared qualities in a unique way.

What is a Metaphor  •   Subscribe on YouTube

Imagery involves the use of vivid and descriptive language to create mental pictures or sensations, enabling readers to experience the poem more fully. 

The Power of Alliteration, Assonance, and Consonance

Alliteration , assonance , and consonance are stylistic devices that contribute to the sound and rhythm of a poem. Alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds, assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds, and consonance is the repetition of consonant sounds anywhere in the word. These devices can lend a lyrical quality to the poem and enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Importance of Tone and Mood

Tone and mood play a crucial role in shaping the reader's emotional response to a poem. Tone refers to the poet's attitude towards the subject, which can be discerned through their choice of words and stylistic devices. 

Mood, on the other hand, is the atmosphere or emotional setting created by the poem, which influences how the reader feels while reading. By carefully manipulating tone and mood, poets can guide their readers' emotional journey through the poem.

Related Posts

  • What is a Sonnet? →
  • What is Iambic Pentameter? →
  • Different Types of Poems and Poem Structures →

How to Start a Poem Based on Form

Types of poetry.

The beauty of poetry lies in its diversity. There are numerous types of poetry , each with its own unique structure, style, and thematic focus. Here are some of the most popular forms:

A sonnet is a 14-line poem that originated in Italy and was later popularized by Shakespeare. It traditionally explores themes of love and beauty and is known for its precise structure, which typically includes a specific rhyme scheme and meter. An iconic example of this is Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18. 

“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?

Thou art more lovely and more temperate:

Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,

And summer’s lease hath all too short a date;

Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,

And often is his gold complexion dimm'd;

And every fair from fair sometime declines,

By chance or nature’s changing course untrimm'd;

But thy eternal summer shall not fade,

Nor lose possession of that fair thou ow’st;

Nor shall death brag thou wander’st in his shade,

When in eternal lines to time thou grow’st:

So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,

 So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.”

Free verse poems do not conform to any specific rules regarding rhyme or meter, giving the poet full creative freedom. This form allows for greater flexibility and experimentation in terms of structure and content.

A limerick is a humorous five-line poem with a distinct rhythm and rhyme scheme (AABBA). The first, second, and fifth lines are longer, while the third and fourth lines are shorter.

Ballads are narrative poems that tell a story, often set to music. They are usually composed of four-line stanzas (quatrains) with a regular rhythm and rhyme scheme.

Originating in Japan, a haiku is a three-line poem with a 5-7-5 syllable count. Haikus often focus on nature and the changing seasons, capturing a single moment or observation in a concise and impactful way.

How To Write A Poem  •  Haiku (Step-By-Step Tutorial)

An elegy is a mournful or reflective poem typically written in response to the death of a person or an expression of sorrow over a personal loss. It often employs a formal tone and structure.

Each type of poetry offers a unique way to express thoughts, feelings, and stories, providing endless possibilities for creativity and exploration.

Whether you're drawn to the brevity of the haiku or the storytelling potential of the ballad, there's a poetic form out there to suit your personal style and voice.

How to Write a Poem Step by Step

Steps to writing a poem.

Writing a poem can be a deeply personal and rewarding process. Here are the key steps to guide you on your poetic journey:

1. Finding Inspiration: Drawing from Personal Experiences and Observations

Inspiration is the first spark that ignites the process of writing a poem. It can come from anywhere — personal experiences, observations, feelings, or even a single word or phrase that resonates with you. Keep an open mind and let the world around you inspire your creativity.

Ocean Vuong  •  Tips for Writing Poetry

2. choosing a theme or subject: what do you want to express.

Once you've found inspiration, it's time to decide what you want to express through your poem. This could be a specific emotion, a personal story, a philosophical idea, or a commentary on societal issues.

Your theme or subject will guide the direction of your poem and provide a focus for your creative efforts.

3. Deciding on a Type: Which Form Suits Your Message?

Next, consider which type of poetry best suits your message. Are you telling a story? A ballad might be appropriate. Sharing a brief, poignant moment? Consider a haiku. Want to break free from traditional structures? Try writing in free verse. The form you choose can enhance your theme and make your poem more impactful.

4. Crafting the First Draft: Letting Your Creativity Flow

Now it's time to start writing. Don't worry about making your first draft perfect — just let your creativity flow. Write down whatever comes to mind, focusing on expressing your thoughts and feelings as authentically as possible.

5. Editing and Refining: Honing Your Poem to Perfection

After you've written your first draft, it's time to refine your poem. Look for ways to improve its rhythm, imagery, and language. Remove unnecessary words, experiment with different poetic devices, and ensure that every line contributes to the overall theme.

6. Review and Revise: The Importance of Multiple Drafts

Don't be afraid to write multiple drafts of your poem. Each revision is an opportunity to improve your work and bring it closer to your vision. Be patient with yourself and take the time to craft your poem to perfection. Remember, writing is re-writing!

Sharing Your Work: Taking the Leap and Putting Your Work Out There

Finally, consider sharing your poem with others. This can be a scary step, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Whether you share your work with a trusted friend, submit it to a literary magazine, or post it on a poetry blog, putting your work out there is a brave act of self-expression and a crucial part of the process.

Now that we've grasped the fundamental steps to crafting a poem, let's explore the different approaches to poetry that can shape your unique writing journey.

Understanding How to Write a Poem

Different approaches to writing poetry.

Learning how to write a poem takes an open mind to creative approach. Poetry, like any other form of art, does not have a one-size-fits-all approach. It's a personal journey that varies from poet to poet. Here are some ways you can approach your poetic endeavors:

The Observational Approach

Some poets find their muse in the world around them. Observing nature, people, or everyday situations can inspire profound thoughts and imagery. This approach encourages you to experience life with an open mind and heart, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary poetry.

The Stream-of-Consciousness Approach

For poets who thrive on spontaneity, the stream-of-consciousness approach is ideal. This technique involves writing thoughts as they come, without concern for structure. It's like a dialogue with your inner self, leading to unexpected connections and authentic poetry. It allows you to tap into your subconscious and reveal hidden ideas, offering new paths to creativity.

What is the Stream of Consciousness?  •  How to Start a Poem

The emotional approach.

Poetry often serves as an outlet for expressing emotions. Whether it's love, sorrow, joy, or anger, channeling your feelings into words can create powerful and relatable poems. This approach requires introspection and honesty with oneself.

The Philosophical Approach

If you're inclined towards pondering life's big questions, the philosophical approach might suit you. This style involves exploring concepts like existence, morality, or the human condition in your poetry. It challenges both the poet and the reader to think deeply and critically.

The Experimental Approach

For those who like to push boundaries and defy conventions, the experimental approach is ideal. This could involve playing with form, structure, or language to create unique and innovative poems. It's all about breaking rules and creating something truly original.

Remember, these are not rigid categories but flexible strategies that you can mix and match according to your preference. The beauty of poetry lies in its flexibility and the freedom it offers the poet. 

In conclusion, poetry writing is more than an art form; it's a journey of self-discovery and profound expression. The joy and fulfillment it offers are unique. If you're a budding poet, remember every masterpiece starts with a single word. Embrace the learning process and know that each word penned brings you closer to your poetic voice.

Types of Poems and Poem Structures 

As we mentioned above, one of the key steps to writing a poem is having a solid understanding of poem structure and form. To learn more about poem structure and types of poems check out our next article. 

Up Next: Types of Poetry →

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Poetry Worksheet Templates

Customize poetry templates.

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If you're assigning this to your students, copy the worksheet to your account and save. When creating an assignment, just select it as a template!

Poetry Worksheets | Poetry Templates

What are Poem Templates?

Poem templates are creative tools that can enhance their writing skills and encourage them to experiment with different poetic forms. These templates are predesigned forms that provide a structured framework for writing poems. Using poem templates is a great way to introduce different poetic forms such as sonnets, haikus, acrostics, and limericks. With the help of a poem template, students can focus on the creative aspect of writing poems, such as choosing the right words, playing with metaphors and similes, and developing their own unique writing style.

What Are the Different Types of Poetry Templates Available for Your Classroom?

Poetry is a creative and fun way for students to express themselves through words. One way to encourage this is by using poem templates, which are designed to help writers come up with their own poems. At Storyboard That, we have various types of poetry worksheets available for your classroom, each with its own unique style and structure.

  • Acrostic poem planners are a great way to get students thinking creatively while also teaching them about words and language. They can be used for any subject, such as science or social studies, and encourage students to write a poem using the letters of a particular word or phrase.
  • Poetry template planners are another type of worksheet that can be used to guide students through the process of writing poems. These templates typically include prompts and space for students to brainstorm and jot down their ideas before drafting their final poem.
  • Haikus are a classic form of Japanese poetry that are great for practicing brevity and creativity. They consist of three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable count, making them a great way to teach students about syllables and rhythm in language.
  • Sonnets are a more complex form of poetry that consist of 14 lines and a specific rhyme scheme. They are a great way to challenge more advanced students and teach them about the structure and form of traditional poetry.
  • Villanelles are another type of poetry worksheet that can be used to challenge writers. They consist of 19 lines and a specific rhyme scheme, making them a more complex form of poetry to write. They are an excellent tool for teachers looking to help their class master this intricate form of poetry. The template provides a clear outline of the structure and rhyme scheme of a villanelle poem, making it easier to understand and follow.
  • Limericks are a fun and playful type of poetry that can be used to encourage writers to be creative and silly. They typically consist of five lines with a specific rhyming pattern and are a great way to introduce kids to the fun and imaginative side of writing their own poems.

No matter which type of poetry template you choose, using them in the classroom is a great way to teach language, creativity, and self-expression. With these templates, students can write their own poems and gain a deeper appreciation for the power and beauty of words.

Using our Poetry Maker Tool

Are you looking for a creative way to teach poetry in your classroom? Look no further than Storyboard That! With our wide selection of printable poetry templates and poetry maker tools, you can help learners develop their writing skills and create their own unique poems.

Our poetry creator allows you to choose from a variety of templates for poems, including acrostic poems, haikus, sonnets, villanelles, and more. You can also use our write your own poem worksheet to give your students the freedom to create their own poetry from scratch.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a poem worksheet. using Storyboard That's poetry maker:

  • Choose a template: Select a from a wide range of free poetry templates above that fits your needs. You can choose from a variety of examples such as haikus, sonnets, limericks, acrostic poems, villanelles, and more.
  • Customize your template: Once you have chosen a template, you can customize it to your liking. You can change the colors to match your preferences, font styles to make it visually appealing, add images, or any other design element that you want to include in your color poem. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect fit for your poem.
  • Add your content: Begin writing your poem by filling in the spaces provided in the template. Use your creativity to write unique and engaging content that reflects your thoughts and ideas.
  • Edit and refine: After you have completed your poem, review it and make any necessary changes. Use the poetry maker tool to edit the format, layout, and design of your poem until you have a final product to publish.
  • Download and share: Once you have completed your custom poem, download it in your preferred format and share it with your friends, family, or colleagues online. You can also print it out and display it in your classroom or workspace using Google Slides, PowerPoint, and more.

With Storyboard That's poetry maker tool and our wide selection of printable poetry templates, creating custom poems has never been easier. Get creative and start exploring the endless possibilities of poetry-making today!

Engaging Classroom Activities Using A Poetry Template to Improve Creative Writing Skills

Poetry templates are a great resource to engage your class in creative writing and improve their writing skills. Here are some activities that you can do in your classroom using poetry templates:

  • Acrostic Poem Challenge: Give your class a topic or a word, and ask them to create an acrostic poem using the letters of the word. Use the acrostic poem template to help them structure their poem.
  • Poetry Elements Analysis: Use poetry elements worksheets to teach about the different elements of poetry, such as rhyme, meter, and figurative language. Then, have them apply their knowledge by creating a poem using a poetry template. You can take the analysis of poetry a step further by introducing writers to SMILE Poetry Analysis . This method encourages kids to analyze the Subject, Mood, Imagery, Language, and Emotion in a poem to gain a deeper understanding of the author's message.
  • Write Your Own Poem: We have a variety of free templates for poems, such as the color poem template, to give learners a fun and creative way to write their own poems. Encourage them to experiment with different poetry forms and techniques.
  • Poetry Performance: Have your students select a poem from a poetry worksheet and practice performing it in front of the class. This activity helps them build confidence in public speaking and interpretation of poetry.
  • Collaborative Poetry Writing: Divide your class into small groups and assign each group a different type of poetry worksheet, such as a sonnet or a villanelle poem template. Have each group create their own poem and then combine the poems to create a collaborative class poem.

By using poetry templates in the classroom, you can enhance your students' creative writing skills and provide them with a fun and engaging way to learn about poetry. So why not start incorporating poetry templates into your classroom activities today? With the variety of templates available, you can easily find ones that fit your students' interests and skill levels. Give learners the opportunity to express themselves creatively and develop their writing skills through poetry.

More Template Options to Enhance Learning

Looking for creative ways to enhance writing skills? Check out our journal cover worksheet templates ! These templates not only serve as a fun activity, but they also encourage writers to express their thoughts and ideas through writing. Once your students have completed their journal covers, use the opportunity to teach point of view in literature . By analyzing different points of view in literature, kids can develop a deeper understanding of the narrative and how it is shaped by the perspective of the characters. Take the fun even further by having your class turn their poems into a graphic novel with one of our graphic novel templates ! Finally, if you are looking for a way to help students organize their time and work, check out a printable student planner template today!

How to Make a Poetry Worksheet

Choose one of the premade templates.

We have color, black and white, portrait, or landscape templates. Take a look at our example for inspiration!

Click on "Copy Template"

Once you do this, you will be directed to the storyboard creator.

Give Your Worksheet a Name!

Be sure to call it something related to the topic so that you can easily find it in the future.

Edit Your Worksheet

This is where you will include directions, specific questions and images, and make any aesthetic changes that you would like. The options are endless!

Click "Save and Exit"

When you are finished with your worksheet, click this button in the lower right hand corner to exit your storyboard.

From here you can print, download as a PDF, attach it to an assignment and use it digitally, and more!

Happy Creating!

Frequently Asked Questions about Poetry Worksheets

What is a poem template.

A poem template is a pre-designed structure or format that provides guidance and direction to students when creating their own poems. These templates may include elements such as rhyme scheme, stanza length, and line length.

Do you have free poetry templates?

Yes, at Storyboard That, we offer a wide selection of free poetry templates that you can use to create your own customized poems. To access these templates, all you need to do is sign up for our two-week free trial. During this trial period, you'll have access to all of our templates and design tools, allowing you to create and edit your poetry templates to your heart's content.

What is a poetry creator?

A poetry creator is an online tool offered by Storyboard That. It allows users to edit and customize their poetry templates. With this tool, users can change the colors, font styles, add images, or any other design element they want to include in their poem worksheet.

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Fill In the Blank Poems

These templates are sorted by topic and guide your writing with prompts. Make the poem your own by filling in the blanks with your unique thoughts.

We love reading poems from our community! If you would like to share your completed poem, please click the link to send it over to us!

Writing About Learning

Writing about seeing/looking, more activities, caring for caregivers, help us help you…, poems to consider, my memories live in my mother’s phone.

Naomi Shihab Nye – 1952- Her dress shimmered tiny pink and green flower gardens like a tablecloth in a rural twentieth century American farmhouse, something tender you never saw since you were a child too, pleats and folds along the bodice, tucks and stitchery made with a patience that barely abides anymore, her hair tightly braided and coiled in circles against her perfect head with tiny red ribbons at elegant intervals, but when you said, Memories, her face fell. She whispered, we left them, we had to leave everything in our house, my cabinet, my doll, my books, my pepper plant, my pillow. Nothing now we knew before. But we have a few pictures. My memories live in my mother’s phone.

Prompt: (1) Write about a childhood memory of something that you didn’t fully understand.

(2) Write about a childhood memory using all sensory images, like sights, smells, sounds, and physical sensations.

by Stanley Kunitz

I have walked through many lives, some of them my own, and I am not who I was, though some principle of being abides, from which I struggle not to stray. When I look behind, as I am compelled to look before I can gather strength to proceed on my journey, I see the milestones dwindling toward the horizon and the slow fires trailing from the abandoned camp-sites, over which scavenger angels wheel on heavy wings. Oh, I have made myself a tribe out of my true affections, and my tribe is scattered! How shall the heart be reconciled to its feast of losses? In a rising wind the manic dust of my friends, those who fell along the way, bitterly stings my face. Yet I turn, I turn, exulting somewhat,

with my will intact to go wherever I need to go, and every stone on the road precious to me. In my darkest night, when the moon was covered and I roamed through wreckage, a nimbus-clouded voice directed me: “Live in the layers, not on the litter.” Though I lack the art to decipher it, no doubt the next chapter in my book of transformations is already written. I am not done with my changes.

Possible prompts to write to….

1. Choose a line that speaks to you and write about it. 2. Think about the layers of your life. Choose one to write about. 3. What is the litter in your life that you are ready to discard? 4. What do you want your next chapter to look like?

Yellow Glove

BY NAOMI SHIHAB NYE What can a yellow glove mean in a world of motorcars and governments?

I was small, like everyone. Life was a string of precautions: Don’t kiss the squirrel before you bury him, don’t suck candy, pop balloons, drop watermelons, watch TV. When the new gloves appeared one Christmas, tucked in soft tissue, I heard it trailing me: Don’t lose the yellow gloves.

I was small, there was too much to remember. One day, waving at a stream—the ice had cracked, winter chipping down, soon we would sail boats and roll into ditches—I let a glove go. Into the stream, sucked under the street. Since when did streets have mouths? I walked home on a desperate road. Gloves cost money. We didn’t have much. I would tell no one. I would wear the yellow glove that was left and keep the other hand in a pocket. I knew my mother’s eyes had tears they had not cried yet, I didn’t want to be the one to make them flow. It was the prayer I spoke secretly, folding socks, lining up donkeys in windowsills. To be good , a promise made to the roaches who scouted my closet at night. If you don’t get in my bed, I will be good . And they listened. I had a lot to fulfill.

The months rolled down like towels out of a machine. I sang and drew and fattened the cat. Don’t scream, don’t lie, don’t cheat, don’t fight—you could hear it anywhere. A pebble could show you how to be smooth, tell the truth. A field could show how to sleep without walls. A stream could remember how to drift and change—next June I was stirring the stream like a soup, telling my brother dinner would be ready if he’d only hurry up with the bread, when I saw it. The yellow glove draped on a twig. A muddy survivor. A quiet flag.

Where had it been in the three gone months? I could wash it, fold it in my winter drawer with its sister, no one in that world would ever know. There were miracles on Harvey Street. Children walked home in yellow light.

Trees were reborn and gloves traveled far, but returned. A thousand miles later, what can a yellow glove mean in a world of bankbooks and stereos?

Part of the difference between floating and going down.

Naomi Shihab Nye, “Yellow Glove” from Words Under the Words: Selected Poems (Portland, Oregon: Far Corner Books, 1995). Copyright © 1995 by Naomi Shihab Nye. Reprinted with the permission of the author.

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Poetry Pop Poetry Blog

Put a pop of poetry in your day.

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How to write a “Where I’m from” Poem (with template)

The poem, Where I’m From by George Ella Lyons is powerful! It is a literary snapshot of the poet’s most memorable images of her childhood. Through her text, she takes the reader on a journey to show them who she was as a child and who she is today. Educators, activists, psychologists, and others have used Ms. Lyons’ poem as a writing exercise for all ages. Let’s have some fun with it!

poem writing template

The Original Poem

Here is the original Where I’m From poem by teacher, poet, and author, George Ella Lyons. You can learn more about Ms. Lyons, her poetry, books, presentations, and a collaborative Where I’m From Project that aims to stamp out hate on her website here: George Ella Lyons .

Here’s my attempt

Now it’s your turn.

You can use the template below if you want a little help writing a Where I’m From poem. This interactive template walks you through the lines of a Where I’m from poem through prompts. Easy-peasy!

Just fill in the form with your words; when finished, the interactive template will put your words into a poem format for you (or you can retype it in the original format as I did). Try to use details and expand on the prompted words with descriptions. Dig deep and really let your reader know where you are from. When you get to the bottom of the template—just click “create.” But don’t worry; you’ll have a chance to make changes if needed (use the back arrow in your web browser, make changes, and click “create” again).

tHANKS FOR POPPING IN

I love comments! Please let me know if you enjoyed this writing exercise. And Follow the blog  for a weekly pop of poetry. Next week we will have fun with #pandemicpoetry (haiku), one of my favorite forms.

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Here’s a visual example of the template. You can download the full, interactive template here: I Am From Poem – Freeology

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13 thoughts on “ How to write a “Where I’m from” Poem (with template) ”

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Wow I just had to do this for my Diverse populations class. Thank you for uploading the template to use as well. I’m thinking about adding mine later to my site.

You’re very welcome! I’m happy you enjoyed it! 🙂

Thank you so much <3

Thanks so much!

just made my poem😅

Just Made my poem and im loving it😅😅😅

Hooray! This is such a powerful form! So happy you were inspired!

Thanks so much! It’s such fun to write this form of poetry 🙂

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How to Write a Diamante Poem

What is a Diamante?

A diamante – pronounced dee-uh-MAHN-tay – is an unrhymed seven-line poem. The beginning and ending lines are the shortest, while the lines in the middle are longer, giving diamante poems a diamond shape. “Diamante” is the Italian word for diamond, so this poetic form is named for this diamond shape.

Believe it or not, the diamante was invented just 40 years ago. It was created by an American poet and educator named Iris McClellan Tiedt in 1969, and has become very popular in schools.

Also known as a “diamond poem” because of its shape, there are two different types of diamantes; synonym diamantes and antonym diamantes.

The Rules of a Diamante

There are just a few rules to writing a diamante:

  • Diamantes are seven lines long.
  • The first and last lines have just one word. The second and sixth lines have two words. The third and fifth lines have three words. And the fourth line has four words.
  • Lines 1, 4, and 7 have nouns. Lines 2 and 6 have adjectives. Lines 3 and 5 have verbs.

Here’s an easy way to visualize all three rules:

Noun Adjective, Adjective Verb, Verb, Verb Noun, Noun, Noun, Noun Verb, Verb, Verb Adjective, Adjective Noun

In a synonym diamante, the nouns at the beginning and end are two words that mean basically the same thing. In an antonym diamante, the two nouns are opposites. Here are a couple of examples:

Synonym Diamante

In this diamante, the words “Monsters” and “Creatures” mean the same thing, so they are synonyms.

Monsters Evil, Spooky Howling, Shrieking, Wailing Ghosts, Vampires, Goblins, Witches Flying, Scaring, Terrifying Creepy, Crawly Creatures

Antonym Diamante

In this diamante, you might say that the words “Cat” and “Dog” are opposites, or “antonyms,” so this is an antonym diamante.

Cat Gentle, Sleepy Purring, Meowing, Scratching Whiskers, Fur, Collar, Leash Barking, Licking, Digging Slobbery, Playful Dog

Getting Started

To start writing a diamante, you first need to decide what thing you want to write about. The reason you want to pick a thing is that your first and last lines need to be nouns . In other words, your diamante will be about a noun, such as a “pencil” or a “pizza,” rather than about a verb, such as “jump” or an adjective like “smelly.” An easy thing to write about is something you like or something you see around you.

Next, you’ll want to decide whether you want to write a synonym diamante or an antonym diamante. If you want to write a synonym diamante, you’ll want to select another word that means the same thing as your subject. If you are going to write an antonym diamante, choose a word that is its opposite.

For this example, I will show you how to write an antonym diamante about the “sun,” and my second noun is “moon,” since the sun and the moon can be considered opposites.

Once you’ve chosen your two nouns, take a piece of paper and brainstorm as many words as you can that have to do with each of them. For example, make one column for each word and write down everything you can think of. You’ll want adjectives (descriptive words), verbs (action words), and even more nouns. Your lists should look something like this:

Don’t worry if you have more words than you need. It’s better to have too many words to choose from than not enough.

Finally, you’ll want to arrange your diamante, putting the synonyms or antonyms at the top and bottom, the adjectives next, on lines 2 and 6, the verbs after that on lines 3 and 5, and lastly your additional nouns on the middle line.

In the top half of the poem – lines 2 and 3 – your adjectives and verbs should be ones from your first brainstorming column – words that have to do with line 1, like this:

Sun Fiery, Yellow Burning, Blinding, Exploding

In the bottom half of the poem – lines 5 and 6 – your adjectives and verbs should be related to the noun on line 7, like this:

Shining, Orbiting, Reflecting Cold, Silver Moon

On line 4, the line in the middle of the poem, the first two nouns should be related to the noun on line 1, and the last two nouns should be related to the noun on line 7, like this:

Flame, Light, Night, Crescent

When you put everything together, you’ll end up with something like this:

Sun Fiery, Yellow Burning, Blinding, Exploding Flame, Light, Night, Crescent Shining, Orbiting, Reflecting Cold, Silver Moon

Things to Remember

As you begin writing your own diamantes, here are the important things to remember:

  • Diamantes can be about anything
  • They are 7 lines long
  • The word count is simple: 1, 2, 3, 4, 3, 2, 1
  • Your lines should have: noun, adjectives, verbs, nouns, verbs, adjectives, noun
  • Try to “center” your poem on the page to give it a diamond shape
  • Most importantly, have fun!

Diamante-writing worksheet for kids

Click here to download a diamante-writing worksheet

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Download a word poetry template, how to use the poetry templates.

Here are four Word templates which can be used to put together either small poetry submissions or whole manuscripts. The templates use a dynamic table of contents and come in both Calibri and Times New Roman fonts. To use the templates follow the examples inside the templates. For the smaller collection use the Normal style for the poem body and Heading 1 for the poem title. For the manuscript template use the Normal style for poem body, Heading 2 for the poem titles and Heading 1 for the section titles. Once the poems and/or sections are in place, put your cursor in the table of contents and refresh the table by hitting F9 on the keyboard. This will update the pagination and text of the table.

If you like the templates or have any questions please send me an email at [email protected].

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  2. Templates And Examples Of Structured Poem Forms

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  4. Poetry Writing Templates: Tools To Help You Write Your Best Poems

    Poetry writing templates provide structure and guidelines for different poetic forms, making it easier to stay focused on your message and create a clear and concise theme. Traditional poetic forms like Sonnets, Haikus, and Villanelles can help structure your poems and create a more impactful message, but require mastery of meter and rhyme ...

  5. How to Write a Poem: In 7 Practical Steps with Examples

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  6. Poem Generator

    To write a poem, first decide whether you want to follow a specific structure such as a sonnet or haiku, or would prefer to write something free-flowing, then choose a poem type from the selection above. Once you've made your choice, we'll ask you for a few words to inspire your poem. We'll them use our extensive word lists to write a poem ...

  7. 15 Common Poetry Forms

    Read More ABC Poems. General Templates of ABC Poem (PDF): ABC Poem Template on 1 page; ABC Poem Template on 2 pages; Acrostic. Acrostic is a form of poetry where the first or last letters of each line create a name, word, or phrase. You can find these words by looking vertically at the beginning or end of the lines. Examples of Acrostic poems ...

  8. Poem Templates PDF

    It might help to have both the template and the completed poem side by side so you can refer back to how the author crafted the original. That might help if you get stuck. Get those creative juices flowing, and try something new. The more you write poems with support, the more comfortable you'll become to step out on your own and find your own ...

  9. How to Write a Poem: Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Poetry

    Prasanna. Prasanna is on a little break from academia and spends his time compiling fiction writing tips. He enjoys poetry, mythology, and drawing lotuses on any surface he can find. 9 steps to writing poetry: 1. Read ten other poems 2. List topics you feel passionate about 3. Consider poetic form, but not too much 4.

  10. How to Write a Poem

    How to Write a Poem Step by Step Steps to writing a poem. Writing a poem can be a deeply personal and rewarding process. Here are the key steps to guide you on your poetic journey: 1. Finding Inspiration: Drawing from Personal Experiences and Observations. Inspiration is the first spark that ignites the process of writing a poem.

  11. Online Poem Generator

    Break into poetry with our AI Poem Generator. Expand your literary expression with poems you can easily create out of text prompts. Use Magic Write™ as your personal muse. Describe your poem's theme, rhyme scheme, and structure, then get your first draft fast. Start with 50 free queries from our AI poem generator and unlock more with Canva Pro.

  12. Free Poem Worksheet Templates: Poetry Maker for Students

    These templates are predesigned forms that provide a structured framework for writing poems. Using poem templates is a great way to introduce different poetic forms such as sonnets, haikus, acrostics, and limericks. With the help of a poem template, students can focus on the creative aspect of writing poems, such as choosing the right words ...

  13. Fill In The Blank Poems

    These templates are sorted by topic and guide your writing with prompts. Make the poem your own by filling in the blanks with your unique thoughts. We love reading poems from our community! If you would like to share your completed poem, please click the link to send it over to us!

  14. Poetry Machine

    48 online poetry writing templates for every grade. The site has step by step directions for each poem, examples for each type and then has the student follow prompts to make writing a poem a breeze. Enter Creative Communication's Poetry Contest! Open to students in grades K-9 ...

  15. Free Online Poem Generator for Instagram and More

    Let Adobe Express be your poetry design expert. Explore professionally designed Tumblr, Pinterest, or Instagram poetry templates to get your wheels spinning or create your own poem design layout from scratch. Establish a theme for your designs using photos, icons, logos, personalized fonts, and other customizable elements to make them feel ...

  16. Free Poetry Templates

    Blank Template. This row should only exist if a blank template is needed at the beginning of the templates. default-create-link-text. { {placeholder-format}} Choose from dozens of online poetry template ideas from Adobe Express to help you easily create your own free poetry. All creative skill levels are welcome.

  17. How to write a "Where I'm from" Poem (with template)

    WHERE I'M FROM. I am from cardboard box rockets, from books and unicycles. I am from a tumble-down shack, white paint peeling, a kitchen floor perfect for hopscotch on winter days. I am from the ancient elm outside my window. whose leaves waved "come play" like a good friend- now gone.

  18. How to Write a Diamante Poem

    There are just a few rules to writing a diamante: Diamantes are seven lines long. The first and last lines have just one word. The second and sixth lines have two words. The third and fifth lines have three words. And the fourth line has four words. Lines 1, 4, and 7 have nouns. Lines 2 and 6 have adjectives.

  19. AI Poem Generator

    In actual fact, we analyzed poetry created by art, and we see it more as a tool than a replacement for human poets. It augments the writing process by offering suggestions and generating content based on inputs. With this, the AI Poem Generator is best used as a tool to help spark your poetic writing.

  20. Manuscript Templates

    For the manuscript template use the Normal style for poem body, Heading 2 for the poem titles and Heading 1 for the section titles. Once the poems and/or sections are in place, put your cursor in the table of contents and refresh the table by hitting F9 on the keyboard. This will update the pagination and text of the table. If you like the ...

  21. Page 2

    Browse our free templates for poem designs you can easily customize and share. Black and White Simple Eid Mubarak Acrostic Poem Writing Activity and Colouring-in Worksheet. Page 2 - Explore professionally designed poem templates you can customize and share easily from Canva.

  22. Best Writing Templates from Notion

    Writing templates. Unleash your literary potential with Notion's Writing templates. Dive into creative realms with character sheets, plot outlines, and writing prompts. Ideal for novelists, screenwriters, and poets, these tools are designed to spark inspiration and organize your storytelling journey. Get Notion free.