read write prompt #27: gulls like white handkerchiefs

Gulls like white handkerchiefs. How I wish I’d written that line. It is a gorgeous simile. Alas. It is not mine. It is a line from Isabel Allende’s new memoir, The Sum of Our Days.
This week, your prompt is fairly simple. Make comparisons. Notice the world around you. Turn your observations into similes (and [...]


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Read Write Poem is an online gathering place for those who love poetry — and for those who suspect that, with a little nurturing, they could grow to love poetry. Whether you are new to writing poetry or have been writing for years, you are welcome here. If you don’t write poetry but love to read and discuss it, this is also the place for you. Read more about the project.


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    poetry prompt

      A different word or phrase will appear here each time you visit the site or refresh the page. Your current prompt is — loganberry

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    collaborating tip

    Use instant messaging to write a poem with a collaborator by taking turns one word, one phrase or one line at a time. With group chat, you can do this with more than one partner.


  • random
    writing tip

    Don't censor your experiences or ideas by telling yourself, "That's not important" or "Nobody would care about that." People write poems grass. Nothing is out of bounds. What you consider mundane or inane or insane may deliver to you a moment or clarity or a bit of joy.

  • random
    reading tip

    Do you know a poet whose work you admire? Ask them who they love to read or would recommend.

  • random
    poetry quote

    Poetry exists as a body attempting communication. — Sam Hamill