Learn to Write a Golden Shovel!

Poetry forms can feel intimidating. We remember counting syllables, looking at meter, and trying to figure out if we're looking at a Petrarchan, Spenserian, or English sonnet.

Fear not!

New (and more accessible) forms are invented all the time. For example, in 2010, Terrance Hayes came up with The Golden Shovel to honor a poet he admired, Gwendolyn Brooks.

National Poetry Month is the perfect time to try something new!

You can use this form to honor a poem or poet that speaks to you. To explain it all--and give you step-by-step instructions using a model poem--I've created a new creativity helper. Simply click on the image below, and you'll be taken to the resource.

If you want more writing ideas or step-by-step help with form or different creative writing concepts, be sure to visit my "Freebies" page for more downloadable resources!

And as always, if you craft a poem using a prompt or resource I've shared, send it to me so I can share it on my website or in my newsletter (hint: subscribe for even more free resources, tips, and information for your writing life!).

Happy writing!