Creative writing can be described as the practice of putting words to paper in order to express yourself or your inner thoughts. There are many different forms of creative writing, each providing its own unique flavor. Below you will discover a list of some of the more common forms of creative writing. Hopefully this will provide some inspiration for your next creative writing project!
Dramatic Writing
Dramatic writing is probably the most commonly practiced form of creative writing. In drama, you utilize dialogue and action in order to tell a story. There is no set formula for writing a dramatic script. However, there are some tried and true techniques that have been used for centuries that can genuinely elevate your writing to a new level of artistry. Some of these techniques include:
- Use specific vocabulary
- Develop a unique plot twist
- Dress the part
- Follow the 3-act structure
- Practice
If you are completely new to writing, start small. Write a short playlet for family and friends to read. Once you have established yourself as a writer, you can move on to the next step. The sky is the limit from there!
There is no definitive end to learning, so be mindful of how far you can go with this particular genre. Keep developing your skills and making progress toward your goals.
Short Stories
Short stories are all the rage these days. More and more people are realizing the benefits of short stories. They are easy to write, relatively quick to read, and lend themselves well to mobile reading. However, there is more to literature than meets the eye, and short stories are only one facet of a much larger panorama. Different from drama, short stories adhere to a strict set of conventions. Typically, short stories involve a specific setting and a list of characters. The protagonist – the main protagonist – and their journey through the story are the focal point. Finally, a short story usually ends on a cliffhanger, demanding the reader to invest the next installment. The key to effective short stories is in the execution. Make sure you practice your craft and elevate your storytelling to a new level of artistry.
Children’s Literature
Whether you are a seasoned vanguard of writers or a complete beginner, one form of creative writing that you should try is children’s literature. This is where legos meet literature! In children’s literature, your stories will typically be aimed at a younger audience and will adhere to a series of conventions geared toward entertaining or educating young readers. Your story may revolve around a specific theme, such as friendship or courage, and may adhere to a particular format, such as the picture book or the board book. Different from short stories, which are usually written for adults, children’s literature can be quite lively and entertaining. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool in your kit. Whether you are crafting an engaging piece of fiction for children or are looking to establish yourself as a competent non-fiction writer, begin your journey in the world of children’s lit.
Poetry
When we think of poetry, images of Byron or Frost may come to mind. If you are fortunate enough to have encountered these literary giants in your classroom, then you have learned something about poetry. If not, there are still numerous ways you can put words to paper and share your imagination with the world. One of the most accessible forms of poetry is the haiku. A haiku is a Japanese poem that features 5-7-5 syllables, an introductory or closing couplet, and five or seven lines of five syllables. The key to writing a strong haiku is not so much the technicalities but in the execution. Make sure you practice, and it will come naturally.
As with all forms of creative writing, there is no definitive end to learning. Be mindful of how far you can go and keep reaching for the sky!