Shape Poems for Kids & Adults - Take Note from a “Prehistoric Beach Warrior”
Nov 20, 2024My poetry group meets at the Sea Cliff library and we were asked to write a “Shape Poem” and submit it for an exhibit. I walked to the beach and there were a few tiny sand crabs walking sideways in front of me. I thought I would write about them.
When I got to shore, I saw a horseshoe crab, still alive and just hanging out between white waves. I felt like he was saying, “Write about those sideways crawlers another time. I have a real story.”
Oh yeah? I sat on the sand and watched him a little while longer. I thought about what he might be like if he were a horse, a fish or bird. This guy had a lot of personality. His tenacity, relentless presence made me think of the warrior. This is what I wrote.
When I finished writing, he disappeared.
So what are shape poems?
Shape poems are a type of poetry where the arrangement of the words on the page form a visual shape that reflects the subject of the poem. Shape poems mix form and content, using the layout to visually represent the poem’s theme or object.
How nature can inspire us to write shape poems
Nature is a great source of inspiration for shape poems! Think about the curve of a wave, the branches of a tree, or the spiral of a snail’s shell. Each one can guide how you shape your words on the page.
Spending time in nature helps clear your mind, making it easier to come up with new ideas. Sometimes, just sitting by a river or walking through a forest can inspire the words to flow in a way they wouldn’t if you were staring at a screen. And because nature is always changing, it reminds us that there’s beauty in movement and transformation, which fits perfectly with the playful and flexible style of shape poems.
The next time you’re outside, try paying attention to the shapes around you. You might just find your next poem in the curve of a leaf.
Ready to Write a Shape Poem? Here’s Your Writing Yoga® Prompt #2025:
- Tree: Write a poem about growth, seasons, or roots, shaping the words like a tree with branching lines.
- Wave: Write about emotions like change or adventure, arranging the poem to mimic the rise and fall of ocean waves.
- Mountain: Shape the poem like a peak to reflect a personal challenge.
When you are done, SIT and imagine the world you created in your poem. Next, put on some music and MOVE as if you are a part of something in nature like a tree or a wave. When we Sit, Write and Move as part of a single practice, our creativity can really shine!
Are you a parent, teacher or librarian who wants to test out Writing Yoga®? I’d like to invite you to my next free Monthly Workshop.
Remember to sit, write & move (SWiM!) each day for a calm, creative & more compassionate life. If you want to immerse yourself in all the benefits of Writing Yoga® Method, please check out my course right here. This interactive course will help you jumpstart healthy and creative practices to: 1) Reduce stress 2) Write and 3) feel luminous.
For more activities and resources, please go to www.WritingYoga.com or book a call to schedule your professional development session or retreat!
Thank you for making the world a calmer, more creative and compassionate place!
Copyright © 2024 Stefanie Maura, All rights reserved.
