People say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, which is why you’ll often see writers imitate the work of others. Whether you feel like you were born with a silver tongue or you’ve just gotten really good at copying others, writing isn’t easy. If you want to write a poem that will truly speak to your audience and capture their hearts, then keep reading.
The Bridge
This poem by William Carlos Williams is one of the most famous haikus in existence. It’s often interpreted as a metaphor for the tension between the old and the new (especially since the author was inspired by the jazz musician John Coltrane), but it’s more than that. This is a poem about solitude and connection. It’s about finding your place in the world and not being afraid to stand out amongst the crowd. In fact, the whole poem is a reflection on finding your voice and using it to make your mark on the world. Remember:
The best ideas don’t necessarily come with the loudest voices (Williams).
Autumn Leaves
This is a wonderful example of a writer using imagery in a very powerful way. The words are beautiful, but it’s the pictures that leave an impression. Remember:
A picture is worth a thousand words (TikTok).
If you’re having a hard time getting your point across with just language, maybe a picture will help. In this case, using a map as a visual aid is both effective and unique. It connects the speaker to the place he’s writing about, and it draws the reader into the story with an image that they can relate to. Remember:
A picture is worth a thousand words (TikTok).
And then there’s this little gem by Christina Rossetti which still manages to impress even us modern day poetry enthusiasts:
Beneath this halo of hair
This is such an incredible example of how a poem can be both sensual and haunting. The use of alliteration and internal rhyme add a unique flavor to this poem that really sets it apart from other works. But the imagery of the poem is what makes it so special. The speaker describes how he walks beneath a tree near his home and is filled with inspiration. The fact that this happened near death defies logic; yet, there he is, feeling joyous and alive. This is a poem about finding beauty in all things and accepting death as a part of life. It’s a celebration of life that finds its place amongst the sorrow.
The Call
What would a list of examples of creative writing really be without including a haiku? It’s the poetry form that embodies the five-to-seven-syllable limit, and it was originally developed for use in battlefield communication. However, due to its short length, easy to memorize syllables, and alliterative structure, it’s been around for centuries and continues to be used today in creative writing and in art circles. Here’s one more from Williams:
Hitting an obstacle –
The last poem on our list is a perfect example of how effective imagery can be when used by a skilled poet. The speaker in this piece refers to the Great War, which was also known as the World War I. Over 100 million people died in this war, which was mainly fought in Europe. It was a hugely influential event in shaping the modern world, and it had a huge impact on the poetry and prose of the era. This poem references various historical events and figures during this time, including the names of cities where battles took place. It’s rich in detail and references, but the whole thing comes together in an organic manner that feels natural and unforced. You can also tell that the author had a passion for the subject matter that led to him writing this particular poem. He wanted to put an end to the Great War once and for all, and in so doing, helped to create the conditions that allowed for the peaceful coexistence of nations that we continue to see today. This is what great creative writing looks like.
These are just some of the most prominent examples of creative writing. There are many other wonderful poems, short stories, and plays that you could study to improve your craft. Don’t be afraid to try out new things and experiment with different forms. If you find that a particular form inspires you, then use it and see where it takes you. Finding your voice is what makes a writer truly great, and it can be a gift that you give to the people that you love the most. So, go ahead – write your masterpiece!