|
the way of 10
writing poetry that empowers your tongue
|
|
What is a 10? A 10 is a new short form of poetry, that hones the power of your communications
|
April Writing Prompts
Ahhh…fickle April! One minute the sun is coaxing tulips to unfold their petals in whirls of brilliant color, and the next minute you’re dashing for cover from a sudden downpour. Blessed hours of peace in the garden followed by wild tempests tossing everything untethered aloft—that’s April—which makes it an ideal time to study contrasts in your own life and environment.
On a spring walk, search for things that suggest contrast: something shiny and new juxtaposed against something worn and discarded; a white snowdrop blooming in a black pot; a birdsnest balanced in an abandoned tractor; new growth from an old snag; moss greening up on rough rocks; an orange azalea against a cerulean sky.
Or you might examine your life for similar signs: a spark of a new direction in a longstanding relationship; a desire to urge tired muscles to try a new sport or game; signs of maturity in your children; oldsters and puppies meeting at the dog park, their energy levels a challenge for each other.
Taking time out of your busy life to reflect on these things—and especially to write about them—is a way of marking time, of staying connected to the earth and the turning of the year. Creating poetry from your observations preserves these glimpses and allows you to share your sightings and insights with others. So please, try some of these prompts and see where they lead you, then share your 10s here for us all to enjoy.
Here are some prompts to get you started:
• What things in your life are showing signs of age and need repairing?
• How does spring weather affect you? Do you enjoy blustery days?
• Have you seen birds carrying twigs in their beaks? Have you watched one build a nest lately?
• What activities make you feel older? What things renew your vitality?
• What puts a spring in your step?
Leave a Reply
Rachel Bagby, author of Divine Daughters: Liberating the Power and Passion of Women’s Voices, has read at and curated poetry programs for the Library of Congress and serves on the Advisory Board of Robert Hass’ River of Words project, connecting children to their watershed through poetry. Learn more about Rachel here.