How to Write a Concrete Poem

So you want to write a concrete poem. Maybe it's for class, maybe you want to show that someone special that you care for them by doing more than just writing an ordinary poem. Read on to learn how to write a concrete poem!

Things You'll Need

• Inspiration

Instructions

1. First, what is a concrete poem?

   A concrete poem is one in which the words make a shape. This picture shows an example. The poem is about a tree and the words are written so that they form the picture of a tree.

   The concrete poem is as much about the words as the look and shape of the poem itself. That's why it's sometimes known as shape poetry.

2. Now that you know what a concrete poem is, we'll move on to how to write one.

   First, you must pick a theme. Let's say that you want to write a poem for your wife for Valentine's Day. Your theme is love.

3. Next, pick a shape.

   Following our theme of love, you could pick a heart or a rose or even the letters: 'L' 'O' 'V' 'E'

4. Get out two pieces of paper. The one is for the final copy so place that aside. With the other piece, write your poem. Do not worry about the shape yet; just write your poem. Concrete poems don't have to rhyme.

5. Not sure how to write a poem? Again, following our example, you are writing a love poem. Close your eyes and think about your wife or girlfriend. Think about what you love the most about them. Think about their qualities. Why you are attracted to them. Maybe find a picture of them and stare at that for inspiration. Whatever moves your heart will make a wonderful poem.

6. Now that you have your poem written, draw with a pencil the shape you choose from step 3. Write you poem into the shape. You may have to play around with the shape so that your poem fits.

7. Add a photo or other colorful designs if you wish to complete your concrete poem.

8. And that's how to write a concrete poem. I hope you had fun!