New Poetry Prompts

Writing prompts are engineered to act as a tool to get you writing. They can extend themselves to any genre of writing that can help you, the writer, get your ideas on paper. You can use these new poetry prompts to inspire your own writing.

In keeping with the theme of poetry for National Poetry Month, use the poetry prompts below to help you move past your writer’s block or use these prompts as a fun exercise to help you express your ideas.

3 New Poetry Prompts to Try

These prompts are designed to inspire and challenge you in your poetic endeavors. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just starting out, these prompts can help you explore new themes and styles in your writing. So grab a pen, or sit at your keyboard, and let these prompts guide you into the wonderful world of poetry.

1. Write a Page of a Journal Entry

Take notice of any five words that either repeat, or stand out. Use these five words in a poem. If you’re having trouble selecting five words, close your eyes and pick five words that your finger lands on.

2. Write a Haiku

A haiku is a Japanese poem that consists of a five-seven-five pattern. Here is an example of a haiku that comes from the poet Natsume Soseki of Japan.

Over the wintry
forest, winds howl in  rage
with no leaves to blow

3. Use a Photo

Write a poem describing the aesthetics of the picture. Are there any people in this shot? Include them in your poem and give them a story. Write about an inanimate object that appears in the poem and give it a story in poem form as well.

Final Thoughts

In any of these prompts, play with alliteration, free verse or other forms of poems you are comfortable with. Come up with your own prompts by allowing yourself the creative free range to gain inspiration from any source around you. The key is to practice writing your poems to stay active and brainstorm. Remember that the creative process should be both fun and productive!