How to Write a Great First Draft
For many writers and poets, the first draft can be the most intimidating part of the process. First drafts are often messy and sometimes radically different from the poem you envisioned (and the poem you’ll eventually end up with). But
Write Fresh Poetry Inspired by Winter Scents
Winter is a season of sensory magic, and its smells are among its most evocative elements. From the crisp air of a snowy morning to the warm, spicy scent of cloves and oranges, these fragrances hold the power to transport
How to Use A Commonplace Journal for Poetic Inspiration
A commonplace journal is a notebook where you store and organize information and notes for later use. Once described as “a diary without the risk of annoying yourself,” commonplace journals do not include any of your own thoughts or introspection,
5 Comforting Poems for the Winter Solstice
The winter solstice, a celebration marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, carries a unique kind of magic. The solstice marks a turning point—when the darkness begins to recede and the light starts its slow return. For
5 Ways to Celebrate Yule With Poetry
This year, Yule starts on December 21 and ends on January 1. An ancient festival, Yule connects us to the seasons, the sun, and our planet’s cyclical nature. It begins on the eve of the Winter Solstice—the shortest day and
Fire Metaphors to Light Up Your Poetry
Fire: an element that keeps us warm and nourished but also has the power to destroy, leaving destruction in its wake. Fire’s complexities make it the perfect poetic image for warmth, passion, anger, and renewal. To help you light up
Required Reading: 12 of the Best Books to Gift Writers
With the holidays coming up, you might be looking for the perfect gift for the writer in your life (or maybe just looking to treat yourself—who needs a reason?). Either way, you can’t go wrong with a book about the
5 Wicked, Witchy Reads that Defy Gravity
Wicked, the 2024 film based on the iconic musical and book, has already proven to be one of the most successful and beloved movie releases this year. If you can’t get “Defying Gravity” out of your head, or have been
How to Start a Little Free Library in Your Community
Are you always looking for ways to build literary community? If so, maybe starting a little free library is on your list of ideas. The Little Free Library nonprofit recently estimated that the program and its supporters help share more
6 Spirited December 2024 Poetry Releases
It’s fitting that as the year closes, we tend to reflect and look back. The poetry collections releasing this December fit this contemplative mood, with many reaching into the past. Readers can look forward to never-before-seen poems from late intellectuals,
4 Heartfelt Poetry Collections Perfect for Your Holiday Romance
Are the holidays heating up your love life? Cuffing season is in full swing, new winter rom-coms are streaming, and maybe you’re looking to get cozy by the fireplace or by the mistletoe. Poetry can help fuel your romantic fantasies
How to Center Gratitude in Your Poetry Practice
Gratitude is more than a nice gesture. Practicing gratitude regularly can reap many benefits, from stronger relationships to better moods and even improved physical health. Plus, the spirit of gratitude can easily be imbued into your writing, both in content