When we think of "poetry", we usually refer to a rhyming poem. But there are other styles, each with unique characteristics. An acrostic is a poem that doesn't have to rhyme - this article will teach you how to write one.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Preparation
Step 1. Decide which tools to use
Some people like to write on the computer, while others are better off with traditional pen and paper. For each method there are advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your needs. If in doubt, try both and then opt for the method you prefer.
- The computer allows you to correct and delete more easily, in addition to the fact that you can eliminate errors and save several drafts.
- Pencil and paper allow you to slow down and really think about what you are writing. Studies have also shown that handwriting strengthens the brain.
Step 2. Understand how an acrostic works
The name may sound complicated, but it isn't! All you need to remember is that the initial letters of each line, read sequentially from top to bottom, must form the subject of the composition. This is often a single word, but you can also create more than one if you wish. You can do a simple online search to find examples, or you can compose one about the sun.
- Remember that the word that will form the first letter of each line also determines the length of the acrostic. Choose a term that matches the length of the poem you want to write.
- If the term is too long or too short, consult the thesaurus. If you have chosen, for example, "love" and it is too short, try first with "friendship", "affection", "devotion", "tenderness", "adoration" and so on.
- You can also use more than one word for the subject you have chosen. This is a great way to lengthen the composition.
Step 3. Let your thoughts and ideas flow freely
What is the topic you want to deal with? Pick one you know well and have a lot to say about and one that will hopefully allow you to use your writing skills with imaginative and creative language. Here are some activities that might help you:
- Always keep a notebook with you to keep track of what you want to write.
- Make a list of the characteristics of the subjects you want to describe. For example: your mother's personality, her appearance, your favorite memory about her, the sound of her voice, her scent and so on.
- Take a walk and write down everything you see in your notebook.
- Get inspiration from a work of art. How does your favorite song or favorite painting make you feel?
- Write about yourself! Who knows you better than you?
Part 2 of 2: Writing an Acrostic
Step 1. Write the keyword vertically
Since each line must start with a letter of this word, you should start with it. Furthermore, this allows you to view the composition and anticipate how the lines will complement each other.
Usually, the first letter of each line is capitalized: this makes it easier to read the keyword
Step 2. Complete the lines of the poem
You may be tempted to start with the first one, but it's not mandatory. Look at all the letters you have to work with. Which one attracts your attention the most and do you think it can help you "unlock"? Start with that, by doing so you are sure you have written a sentence that you really like!
- You can write a meaningful sentence for each line, which means it will end with a period or a logical grammar break.
- You can also compose enjambements: in this case you can break the line where you see fit, regardless of grammar or punctuation.
Step 3. Focus on the sensory images
It is a language that stimulates all five senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell. The reader will be able to better understand the abstract concept of "love" or "hope" if he can imagine specific details perceived with the whole body.
For example, instead of just saying you love your mom, you can say you love the scent of coffee that remains on her hands when she makes breakfast
Step 4. Try to use similes and metaphors
A simile is a figure of speech that associates two terms with each other using the word "like": red like a rose. A metaphor is another rhetorical figure that associates two terms without using the word "how", but in a deeper way, comparing them as if they were the same thing: the clouds were cotton balls in the sky.
Step 5. Use innovative language
Avoid stereotypes (words that have become so common that everyone knows). These include describing something that is "red as a rose" or comparing clouds to cotton balls. Try to be as creative as possible! Try composing descriptions, conjuring images, or making comparisons you've never heard before.
Step 6. Correct the essay
Just because you have written all the lines of the acrostic does not mean that you have already finished! When you have completed the first draft, reread the poem and think about how you can improve it.
- Try to make abstract language more concrete. Terms that express abstract concepts, such as "love" and "hope", may seem pretty, but they are not as communicative as words that evoke physical sensations (sensory language).
- Strengthen your language choices. Circle any terms that might be more interesting. Look up synonyms in the dictionary to make the vocabulary stand out - but don't pick a word just because it's long.
- Stay consistent with the topic. Make sure that each line of the poem is in theme with the subject of the acrostic.
Step 7. Check the spelling and grammar
Once the poem is as interesting and creative as you wanted it, reread it looking for typos. Make sure that the reader can understand the acrostic by eliminating any complicated or unclear words. This should be the last step.
Advice
- Be creative! Acrostics don't have to rhyme, but you can try to impart some rhythm.
- The vocabulary and thesaurus are very useful tools, if you can't find a word that best expresses your feelings or that you need to modify but you don't know how. Use them when you really need them.
- If you have any difficulties or lack inspiration, start with a very short term.
- If you are writing by hand, use a pencil, then trace the first letter of each line with a marker so that it stands out.
