8 Powerful Prompts to Overcome Writers Block

1.      An Object That Remembers You

Write a poem from the perspective of an object you no longer have. What does this object miss about you? What does it see you doing in your life now, that is different.

2.      When the Weather Matched Your Mood

Write a poem or prose piece using weather to intimate mood. The key here, avoid cliches - don’t say your anger is like a thunderstorm. Get creative.

3.      Instructions for Healing

Write a poem in the form of an instruction manual. Give step-by-step instructions while keeping it poetic. Use strong imagery and metaphors.

4.      List poem: Water

Write a list poem or prose piece about water. What does water do? Where does it go? What is it’s purpose? Think about how you, in particular, relate to water. Make it personal.

5.      Ghost Line: Page 37

Write a poem starting with the line from any book. Open the book closest to you and turn to page 37. Choose a line from this page and use it as the beginning line of your poem. When your poem is finished, erase the first line. Your poem will now begin on your second line. NOTE: *make sure to erase the first line, otherwise its plagiarism!

6.      Your Hometown, Personified

Write a prose piece about the place you grew up. Use human characteristics to personify your city/town/country. Use both large and small details.

7.      What the Body Knows Before You Do

Write a poem about an emotion or a concept that your body knows about - before your mind catches up. Try to avoid any cliches (ie. your heart breaking).

8.      An ‘After’ Poem: Kim Addonizio

Read ‘To the Woman Crying Uncontrollably In the Next Stall’ by Kim Addonizio. Write a poem inspired by this piece and make sure to credit the original author under your title.

I always love to read the poems created from these prompts! Tag me on Instagram @nicoledalcourtwrites so I can share you piece (with permission).

Happy Writing!!