Not Just for Polyglots! Why You Should Try Writing in a Foreign Language

Foreign language? … Say what? Trust me, it’s not as crazy as it sounds, nor as far out of reach as you may think. Let me make one thing clear, right from the beginning: you don’t need to speak like a native, or even have advanced foreign language skills. You simply need to know enough to string together coherent … Read more…

7 Poem Starters When You’re Feeling Uninspired

7 Poem Starters When You're Feeling Uninspired

Writer’s block happens to everyone, including poets. If you’re running low on inspiration, try these poem starters to get writing again! 1. Play Dictionary Roulette Take any book or dictionary, open to random page, look away and stick your finger somewhere on the page. Whatever word (or words, or image) your finger lands on — write … Read more…

100 Themes Poem: “Diptych: A Line in the Snow”

Back with another winter poem! I wasn’t sure I should post this one, just in case I wanted to submit it later for publication. But then I remembered I’d decided my 100 Themes poems would be for sharing. No holding back. 🙂 So here’s my ninth 100 Themes poem, based on the prompt — CUT Honestly, it took … Read more…

How to Start Writing Again After Falling in the Ditch

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Sometimes, in the writer’s life, you’re high-flying — held up by winds of inspiration, discipline, and small victories along the way. Other times, you find yourself fallen in a ditch somewhere with no idea what just happened. How it happens doesn’t really matter. How you move forward — that’s what counts. But how can you pick yourself … Read more…

100 Themes Poem and Prompt: “The Hill-Top Exile, Dreaming Still”

The Hill-Top Exile, Dreaming Still

Themes of separation and exile seem to be the golden thread running through my poems. I’d almost say it was my “poetic mode.” Or mood. But then, perhaps exile is the essential mode of all poets … since, after all, to be human in this world is to be an exile. All of us long for perfect communion, … Read more…