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  • Writing Poetry

How to Write Shape Poems

Last Updated: March 6, 2024 Fact Checked

Brainstorming Ideas

Creating the shape, writing the poem, placing the text.

This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 151,903 times.

A shape poem, also called a concrete poem or a calligram, describes an object and is written in the shape of that object. You can create shape poems of all shapes and sizes, using objects or subjects that inspire you. To write a shape poem, you will need to brainstorm ideas, create the shape template, and then add in the poem so it sits within the form properly.

Step 1 Read examples of shape poems.

  • “O sweet spontaneous earth” by e.e. cummings. [2] X Research source
  • “Vision and Prayer” by Dylan Thomas. [3] X Research source
  • “Concrete Cat” by Dorthi Charles. [4] X Research source
  • “Butterfly” by David Schondelmeyer. [5] X Research source

Step 2 Analyze the examples.

  • How does the author use the shape of the poem to heighten the meaning of the poem? How does the text and the shape interact in the poem? For example, Charles’ “Concrete Cat” uses the text to form the shape of a cat, with each word forming it’s shape on the cat’s body. “Whisker” forms a whisker on the cat, “eye” forms an eye. This creates an interesting visual representation for the reader.
  • How do the line breaks in the poem, created by the shape, add meaning and detail? For example, in Schondelmeyer’s “Butterfly”, the shape of the butterfly limits the number of words Schondelmeyer can use in the poem. But the shape also allows Schondelmeyer to create mirroring text and text that connects the two sides, or “wings” of the poem.

Step 3 Focus on an activity or hobby you enjoy.

  • You may also be inspired by a particular animal in the natural world, such as the fierceness of a lion or the grace of a gazelle. You may then pick an animal and use it as inspiration for your poem. [8] X Research source

Step 5 Pick your favorite object or an object of sentimental value.

  • Keep in mind you will need to fit the text of the poem in the shape. So, you may want to select a shape that is wide or has a wide center. If you select a shape that is more challenging, such as the shape of a hand or the shape of a long, thin pen, you may need to be more creative with how you fit the text within the shape.

Step 2 Make the shape template on a computer.

  • Alternatively, you can download shape templates online. You may use an existing template if you are using a common shape, such as the shape of a heart or the shape of a butterfly. [10] X Research source

Step 3 Draw the shape template on a piece of paper.

  • You may use a stencil of the shape, depending on what it is, to ensure it is symmetrical and even. Make sure you draw the shape template so it is big enough to fit text.

Step 1 Make a list of keywords and terms about the subject.

  • For example, if you are writing about tennis, you may write down “strings”, “grass”, “sweat”, “armbands”, “two handed forearm”, “tingling hands”.
  • If you were writing about an object of sentimental value, like your grandmother’s watch, you may write down terms that relate to both your grandmother and the watch. For example, “ancient”, “ticking”, “light colored”, “delicate”, “wise”.

Step 2 Focus on the five senses.

  • For example, maybe in your poem about tennis, you write about the smell of the grass courts, the sound of the ball hitting your racket, or the taste of sweat on your lips as you play a match. You may focus more on short descriptions of these sensory details, as your shape may only allow you to include a few lines of text.

Step 3 Use literary devices.

  • Rhyme: This is a pattern of words that produce the same sound or similar sounds. Rhyme is often used in shape poems as a way to tie the lines together, especially if your shape creates breaks or gaps between the lines of text. For example, in Schondelmeyer’s “Butterfly”, the author has rhyming lines: “Oh what a beautiful creature, does it fly/ it floats by/and flutters high/I think it’s called a butterfly…” [11] X Research source
  • Repetition: This is a pattern of the same words that repeat in sequence. Many shape poems use the repetition of words to create the shape of the poem or to reinforce the shape. For example, Charles’ “Concrete Cat” repeats the word “stripe” to create the striped lines on the cat’s body and repeats the word “whiskers” to create the whiskers of the cat. [12] X Research source
  • Metaphor: Metaphors are used often in poetry. In metaphor, a meaning or identity is given to the subject by way of another subject. [13] X Research source For example, if you are writing about tennis, you may use the metaphor: “The racket is my sword in battle, the court is my green battlefield.”

Step 1 Arrange the text within the shape.

  • Have fun with this part, as it is a critical step in making a shape poem. Focus on arranging the text so it forces the reader to look at the words within the shape or in a different way. For example, if you are writing about tennis and placing the text within the shape of a tennis racket, you may include details about the racket strings in the string section of the racket and details about swinging the racket in the handle section of the racket.

Step 2 Edit the text in the shape.

  • You may also decide to edit down certain lines so they create the shape of the subject or object more clearly. Similar to Charles’ “Concrete Cat”, think about how your poem can represent the shape in very few words. This may be a fun challenge if you are looking for a different approach to your shape poem.

Step 3 Add color to the shape poem.

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  • ↑ https://examples.yourdictionary.com/examples-of-shape-poems.html
  • ↑ https://www.webexhibits.org/poetry/explore_21_visual_examples.html
  • ↑ https://mseffie.com/assignments/poem-a-day/10.html
  • ↑ https://accelerate.uofuhealth.utah.edu/resilience/how-to-find-or-reignite-your-inspiration
  • ↑ https://web.uri.edu/artsci/faculty-spotlights/peter-covino-on-poetry/
  • ↑ https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/court/shape-poems/
  • ↑ https://www.enchantedlearning.com/poetry/shapepoems/
  • ↑ https://www.pinterest.com/pin/328199891570579359/
  • ↑ https://literary-devices.com/content/metaphor

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shape poem assignment

Teaching Concrete Poetry – Shape Poems for Kids

Teaching concrete poetry? It takes the shape of the topic. Also known as shape poems, these simple word arrangements make easy projects for kids. Surprising, this type of literature has been around for close to 2500 years.

Teaching Concrete Poetry Cover

Teaching Concrete Poetry

Our favorite fourth grade teacher, Ms. Sneed, sat at the side table with her student teacher. “Time to teach another type of poetry ,” she said. “Today, we’ll plan for concrete poems.”

Mr. Grow looked a little puzzled, so Ms. Sneed explained more. “You know, shape poems. When kids write words, they create an image.”

A Shape Poem Example

The mentor teacher pulled a set of papers from her bag. “Here’s a simple example. For this shape poem, the words fill a heart.” She read the verse aloud:

May love appear on your doorstep every day to comfort your heart and soul.

“No rhythm or rhyme?” asked Mr. Grow.

“Not necessarily,” Ms. Sneed responded. “I mean, you could use those elements of poetry . However, in my opinion, using figurative language works best.”

“Ah, like the personification used here.”

Ms. Sneed nodded.

Use a simple example to when teaching concrete poetry to kids in fourth and fifth grade. This heart is shaped by these words: "May love appear on your doorstep every day to comfort your heart and soul."

The History of Concrete Poetry

“You may be surprised to find out that concrete poetry isn’t just for kids,” Ms. Sneed continued. “As a matter of fact, it dates back to the third and second centuries BCE. During that time, Greek poets arranged letters in poems to enhance meaning.”

Easter Wings – 1633

She slid a paper across the table to Mr. Grow. “This poem, ‘Easter Wings,’ was written by George Herbert in 1633. In the publication, it spread across two pages in the shape of a bird or butterfly.”

The student teacher studied the poem. “In this classic concrete poetry, I see that the author did use rhythm and rhyme. Therefore, it’s more traditional. However, he broke up the verses to achieve the shape.”

“Right. Actually, this example provides a longer, more complex literary piece. This year, I’d like kids to see a variety of this genre.”

Concrete poetry has existed for centuries. This shape poem, "Easter Wings," was written by George Herbert in 1633.

A Mouse’s Tail – 1865

Next, Ms. Sneed handed another paper to Mr. Grow. “This concrete poem was written by Lewis Carroll.”

At that, Mr. Grow’s eyes lit up. “The author Alice in Wonderland ?”

Ms. Sneed chuckled. “The same. If you look at the shape, you’ll see the topic. The title is ‘A Mouse’s Tail.'”

Now it was Mr. Grow’s turn to chuckle. “T-A-L-E or T-A-I-L? An obvious play on words.”

“The latter. Actually, this piece was included in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland , which was published in 1865. As you can see, this poem illustrates the playful side.”

In 1865, Lewis Carroll included this shape poem, "The Mouse's Tail," in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. It's a great example of concrete poetry for kids in fourth and fifth grade.

Options for Creating Concrete Poetry

“Ah,” said Mr. Grow, “I get it. Three different shape poems. And each has a different slant.”

“Yes. First, you’ll show the kids a simple example. Second, you will offer a bit of history. For that, you can show longer, more traditional poetry, as well as something playful.”

“What about writing? How should I guide them?”

Ms. Sneed furrowed her eyebrows. “Well, I normally don’t say this. But I think for this project, anything goes. If kids want to draw shapes and fill them with related words, okay. However, I’m okay with other options as well. Maybe it’s time to just let them create.”

The student teacher looked a little worried – but resigned.

Enjoy Teaching

“Sure,” Ms Sneed said, “I enjoy teaching in a room where I’m in total control. As a matter of fact, I love it. You know what a control freak I can be.” Again, she chuckled. “But sometimes, you just have to set kids free. Otherwise, their creativity is squelched.”

shape poem assignment

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shape poem assignment

How to Write a Concrete Poem

What is a concrete poem.

Concrete poetry—sometimes also called ‘shape poetry’—is poetry whose visual appearance matches the topic of the poem. The words form shapes which illustrate the poem’s subject as a picture, as well as through their literal meaning.

This type of poetry has been used for thousands of years, since the ancient Greeks began to enhance the meanings of their poetry by arranging their characters in visually pleasing ways back in the 3rd and 2nd Centuries BC.

A famous example is “ The Mouse’s Tale ”  from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.  The shape of the poem is a pun on the word tale/tail, as the words follow a long wiggling line getting smaller and smaller and ending in a point.

The name “Concrete Poetry,” however, is from the 1950’s, when a group of Brazilian poets called the Noigandres held an international exhibition of their work, and then developed a “manifesto” to define the style.

The manifesto states that concrete poetry ‘ communicates its own structure: structure = content ’

There are 2 main ways that this can be achieved…

Outline Poems

A common way to make the visual structure reflect the subject of the poem is to fill an outline shape that relates to the topic of the poem, in the same way that Carroll’s poem fits the outline of a mouse’s tail.

Here is an example about a snowman:

Concrete Poetry

  • Choose an object to be the subject for your poem.  Good suggestions for beginners could be favorite animals or favorite foods.
  • Draw a simple outline of its shape on paper or on the computer.  If you’re using paper, draw with a pencil not a pen.
  • Write your poem normally.  Try to describe how the subject makes you feel.  The words will be fitted into your drawing, so don’t make it too long – between 6-12 lines is probably a good length!

IT DOESN’T HAVE TO RHYME!

  • Lightly in pencil, or on the computer, write your poem into the shape.  It’s ok if it doesn’t fit properly yet, because this is where you find out if you need to make the writing larger or smaller.
  • Decide if you need to make your writing bigger or smaller in certain parts of the drawing,  then erase your first draft and write out the poem again.  You can keep doing this until you are happy.
  • Finally, erase the outline of your shape, so that it is just the words from your poem left creating the image!  If you were writing in pencil, you can now go over the words in pen!
  • (In my example I added the ‘brrr…’s afterwards to make the picture look better, but without interrupting the story of the poem.  If you want to try details like this, think of comic-book-style effect words like ‘flash’, ‘purr’, ‘phew’ or ‘zzzz…’ to add another element to the story-picture!)

Drawing Poems

Another way to make concrete poetry is to use the lines of words to make the lines of a drawing.  The NASA website has a great example about the first ever airplanes if you click here .

This time, the subject doesn’t have to be an object, but it does have to be something you can draw an illustration of using ‘stick’ figures.

This is my example of ‘growing’:

Concrete Poetry

  • Choose your subject
  • Draw a simple line – or ‘stick’ – drawing to illustrate your subject on paper or on the computer.  If you’re using paper, draw with a pencil not a pen.
  • Write your poem normally.  Simple is best, so stick to between 2-6 lines.
  • Lightly in pencil, or on the computer, write the lines of your poem along the lines of your drawing – remember that we normally read from left to right, and from top to bottom!
  • If you don’t have enough words, or have some left over, don’t worry!  Decide where you need to make your writing bigger or smaller to make it all fit, then erase your first draft and write out the poem again over your line drawing.  You can keep doing this until you are happy.
  • Finally, erase the line drawing, so that it is just the words from your poem left creating the image! (If you were writing in pencil, go over the writing in pen first.)

(In my example I wanted to add branches to the tree, so used repeated words from my poem to highlight the theme, and make the picture better.  If you want to add details like this, think about what the most important word is in your poem and use the one that best sums up its message!)

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How To Write Shape Poetry

How To Write Shape Poetry

Component I: The Basics

Shape poetry is a form of visually expressive written art where the poet contorts their words into shapes that often reflect a particular theme or have an aesthetically pleasing design. Typically done by writing individual words on separate lines, shape poetry has sustained its popularity for centuries.The literal juxtaposition of words and the physical representation of symbols make this art form an achievable and enjoyable approach to poetry. Shape poetry is also often referred to as concrete poetry, pattern poetry or calligrammes, the latter having its roots in dadaism. While the practice of artfully laying out words can go back centuries, modern poets began documenting shape poetry in the 1800s. The fundamentals of shape poetry are fairly straightforward, but there are a few points to consider if you’d like to embark on this creative journey. To begin, it’s best to choose a particular theme as the prominent topic of your poem. When you have a core concept, jot down words or phrases that fall in line with the overarching idea. You might even draw inspiration from those that have gone before you by reading shape poems from well-known authors. After the thematic nucleus of your poem has been established, begin to arrange the words and phrases that have been listed. Visualize the form of your shape poetry, taking into consideration a combination of the spoken word, size and placement of each letter or phrase. You may also refine the layout of your words, considering indentations or other featured spacing.

Component II: Sentiments and Syntax

As a fledgling shape poet, it’s important to express your emotions in a meaningful way. Pay attention to written elements that carry moods, like puns, similes, metaphors and alliteration. By employing these techniques and more, your poem will have added depth, allowing for a richer experience for the audience. Sentiments should be expressed not only on the surface level but also underneath. Think of the motions the words arouse and the kind of story the poem tells. Then use language to further emphasize those sentiments. To illustrate further, if your shape poem is about sadness, perhaps the lines should be longer, going diagonally, to reflect said emotion. Written text that carries three of more syllables equates to a stronger overall impact. A poem that is built up of such words can be described as vigorous. Such words can provide your poem with intensity, ultimately aiding your readers in connecting with the piece on a deeper level.

Component III: Focus On Structure

When brainstorming key elements of shape poetry, structure should be at the forefront. Is the shape focused on: long, short, or tightly knit lines? You’ll also want to pay attention to the size of the letters; some poets may choose to accentuate certain words throughout their poem by enlarging the text. Create a distinguishable shape and avoid producing letters that’re too cluttered, as this may diminish the overall appearance. Additionally, use color to your advantage. A good rule of thumb is to avoid utilizing any more than three, so as to maintain the crispness of the poem. As far as the general framework of the poem, you might start by getting a pencil and paper, and sketching out the layout that comes to mind. This way, you have something to refer back to as you type and shuffle each letter around.

Component IV: Point of View

How To Write Shape Poetry

The audience’s POV is another key point to consider when writing shape poetry. While some poems are self-explanatory with no narrative to be followed, others require a specific POV that encourages readers to digest the piece in a certain way. Such poems almost require viewers to stand directly underneath the creation to get a true sense of the piece. The audience’s point of view can be the determining factor in how the poem is executed in the eyes of the reader. Furthermore, different POVs may create varying levels of interest in your readers; therefore, it’s important to have an underlying POV that’s showcased in the poem.

Component V: Editing

Like any artistic piece, it’s important to keep revising and editing your shape poem before it’s complete. Maintaining an organized flow is key, while still allowing creative license. Read your poem over and over again until you’re satisfied with the finished product, and if you still feel something is off or missing, take the extra time to tweak it. Focus on making sure that each element of the poem works in harmony. The poem should tell a story and stand test of time in terms of its visual appeal. Take note on how every word interacts with one another and how a reader may instinctively read the poem, noting off any errors as you go along.

Component VI: Revisions and Redaction

The redaction process of shape poetry is incredibly important for any poet looking to make his or her work stand out from the rest. Not all poets follow these rules of thumb, but for individuals who’re looking to create an audio-visual poem, redaction should be considered. Writing with fewer words is more effective in shape poetry. Eliminate any terms or phrases that you feel don’t add to the poem’s meaning. If a particular line has three or fewer words and involves two answers, or two-words that are in opposition with each other, then it is suitable for redaction. One of the motivations behind redaction is to make certain words, or groups of words, stand out in a particular poem. Achievable through the use of italics or capital letters, this technique has proven to be effective in making a shape poem much more appealing to readers.

Component VII: Tone and Tempo

Setting and maintaining a good tone throughout your shape poem is essential for any poet looking to achieve an interesting and stimulating piece. Whether it’s a mournful elegy or a lighthearted sonnet, the tone has to be consistent and intentional. The tone of the poem should exude emotion, as it’s one of the main reasons readers are compelled to read shape poetry. Utilizing language that evokes particular feelings is paramount in shaping the poem’s emotional atmosphere. Likewise, you’ll want to ensure that you maintain a steady tempo throughout the poem. From the beginning to the end, keep track of the pacing and avoid monotonous compositions. Instead, mimic the strong and steady beats of a heartbeat.

Component VIII: Typography and Visuals

How To Write Shape Poetry

When the words have been laid out meaningfully, the poem can become elevated even further with the use of typography and visuals. Integrating recent advancements in typography can result in aesthetically pleasing text, a concept that have been practiced by poets for ages. Though the most foundational concept of shape poetry is the arrangement of words into readable shapes by hand, advances in technology have enabled poets to craft their creations digitally. Whether it’s through the use of specific fonts or the alteration of individual parts of the letters, the options are plenteous. In regards to visuals, carefully selected words or phrases can be crossed out, italicized, or bolded to give the reader hints along the way. Popular programs like Adobe InDesign and Photoshop also allow poets to insert images, illustrations, or symbols as a way to further explain the piece – each addition or change altering the overall feel of the poem.

Component IX: Themes and Characterization

The success of the poem is a product of the theme and the characters which it encompasses. It’s important to carefully choose a theme that can be explored deeply, allowing readers to get the full potential from your shape poem. As a theme will likely carry a plot, plot elements should be remembered. Characters are integral to such a storyline, as they’re used to representing abstract concepts and thus implementing more layers to your poem. Adhering to a theme in the spirit of the prompt and creating characters is the optimal way to bring a shape poem to life. In addition to creating characters that have background stories, shape poets should focus on the personification and characterization that comes into play when forming the structure of the piece. Now and then, the structure can almost tell a story itself.

Component X: Viewer Impact

The main goal of any shape poem is to create a visual masterpiece that carries an emotional context and is artistically pleasing. Through a combination of creative composition and effective redaction, poets are given the power to influence the viewer’s reaction. The key to impacting a reader lies in the way the poem is technically arranged. Having a piece which captivates the audience’s attention for the length of time that lasts is beneficial for a shape poet. Paying attention to the spacing, length, typeface, and orientation of the poem each play a huge part of the overall success of the piece in terms of viewer impact. Long, drawn out letters symbolize a slower tempo and a more thoughtful feel, while smaller letters can more easily convey intense emotion. Where these characters and phrases are placed on the page can also tell a story and provide an additional layer for the viewers to ingest. Overall, the impact of the poem is based on the fact that the readers are engaged and motivated to observe the words and phrases with new clarity. If the poem successfully captures their attention and creates the desired mood, then that poet has inarguably produced an effective shape poem.

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Minnie Walters

Minnie Walters is a passionate writer and lover of poetry. She has a deep knowledge and appreciation for the work of famous poets such as William Wordsworth, Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, and many more. She hopes you will also fall in love with poetry!

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Diamante Poetry

Diamante is a popular poetic form that is made up of seven lines. They are formatted into the shape of a diamond and used to compare two opposites.

The diamante poem, or diamond poem, was created by Iris Tiedt in A New Poetry Form : The Diamante, published in 1969. It is an unrhymed seven-line shape poem .

The most popular way that these poems are used is to compare and contrast the subject matter . This means that the poet will pick two opposites and write about each within the seven lines. For example, spring and fall, light and dark, age and youth, or men and women. The poems might also be used to speak on synonyms and antonyms, or words with opposite meanings.

Explore Diamante Poetry

  • 1 Diamante Poem Form
  • 2 Diamante Poems as Instructional Tools
  • 3 How to Write a Diamante Poem (5 Steps)
  • 4 Example of a Diamante Poem
  • 6 Related Literary Terms
  • 7 Other Resources

diamante poetry

Diamante Poem Form

The seven-lined poem is not just shaped into a diamond, they also follow a specific pattern within the diamond. The subject of the poem is in the first line. It is usually a noun. It is then followed by two adjectives, then some verbs starting in the third line (action words), more nouns, verbs, adjectives, and then the second subject (opposite or antonym). When written out the pattern sometimes looks like this:

Adjective Adjective

Verb Verb Verb

Noun Noun Noun Noun

Other forms as also possible, as is an infinite amount of experimentation. In this diamond-shaped format, the top and the bottom are meant to contrast with one another. It is through the middle, as the lines progress down or up, that the two merge until they get to the middle line. The four central nouns should apply to both subjects.

Diamante Poems as Instructional Tools

This poetic form is used less by poets and more by those attempting to expand their writing abilities. It is popular in school settings, creative writing workshops, and any other group where one might want to challenge their vocabulary. Plus, they are a good way of helping students get a handle on the different parts of speech . A young student will come to understand what exactly a verb is and how they can think of more.

These poems allow the writer to make connections between two subjects that they might not have initially conceived of. The connecting lines, two through six, help this to occur.

How to Write a Diamante Poem (5 Steps)

1) consider the format, rules, and expectations.

It is crucial, before beginning any formatted poem to have a full understanding of what is appropriate to that format and what is not. The diamond-shaped form that’s written above is a great place to start. From there, the writing process is an interesting one.

After looking over the format that one is going to be working with it is time to pick a subject. The subject matter is slightly more restricted with diamante poems than it is with other forms. You will need to select two subjects that can be set as opposites. Some examples include:

  • Night—Day
  • Happiness—Sadness
  • Children—Adults
  • Kindness—Cruelty
  • Summer—Winter
  • Cats—Dogs
  • Life—Death
  • Rich—Poor
  • Country—City
  • Heaven—Earth

And many many more.

3) The parts of speech

It might be helpful, especially if you are new to considering the parts of speech, to look over what a verb, noun, and adjective are before beginning. Therefore you’ll have a clear understanding of the kinds of words you need to come up with.

  • Verb: a word used to describe an action, state, or occurrence. For example, think, jump, run, dance, play.
  • Noun: a person, place, thing, or idea. For example, doctor, mother, China, cellphone.
  • Adjective: a word or phrase that names an attribute. For example, beautiful, ugly, brilliant, lazy.

4) Collect your words

Now, it is time to start collecting. In the traditional form of a diamante poem, it is necessary to have adjectives, nouns, and verbs that apply to both your subjects. The easiest way to do this is to make a list and put on it every noun, verb, and adjective you can think of that applies to your topic.

5) Narrow it down and arrange the words

Choose the correct number of verbs, adjectives, and nouns for your lines. This will allow you to move forward, arrange the words on the page, switch them around, and see what feels right. Now, you should have the means to write your own diamante poem.

Example of a Diamante Poem

  • Line one: Cat
  • Line two: Proud, Assured
  • Line three: Stalking, Sleeping, Watching
  • Line four: Feral, Tortoiseshell, Calico, Persian
  • Line five: Running, Jumping, Playing
  • Line six: Soft, Little
  • Line seven: Kitten

When these lines are arranged in the traditional diamond format they would look like this:

Proud, Assured

Stalking, Sleeping, Watching

Feral, Tortoiseshell, Calico, Persians

Running, Jumping, Playing

Soft, Little

The subject of the poem is in the first line. It is usually a noun. It is then followed by two adjectives, then some verbs (action words), more nouns, verbs, adjectives, and then the second subject (opposite or antonym).

A diamante poem looks like a diamond. The lines vary in length, with the middle lines being the longest, and the first and last lines the shortest.

A diamante poem doesn’t need a title, but many authors use the first line of the poem as the title.

Related Literary Terms

  • Concrete Poem : Concrete poetry , also sometimes known as visual poetry or shape poetry , is focused on the visual effect that linguistic elements have when they’re arranged in a certain way.
  • Free Verse : lines are unrhymed and there are no consistent metrical patterns. But, that doesn’t mean it is entirely without structure.
  • Coherence : refers to the properties of well-organized writing. This includes grammar, sentence structure, and plot elements. 
  • End-Stopped Line : a pause that occurs at the end of a line of poetry. It might conclude a phrase or sentence.
  • Oxymoron : a kind of figurative language in which two contrasting things are connected together. 
  • Antithesis : occurs when two contrasting ideas are put together to achieve the desired outcome.

Other Resources

  • Listen: Diamante Poem
  • Watch: How to Write a Diamante Poem?
  • Watch: Diamante Poem

Home » Poetic Forms » Diamante Poetry

The Definitive Literary Glossary Crafted by Experts

All terms defined are created by a team of talented literary experts, to provide an in-depth look into literary terms and poetry, like no other.

Cite This Page

Baldwin, Emma. "Diamante Poetry". Poem Analysis , https://poemanalysis.com/poetic-form/diamante-poem/ . Accessed 3 September 2024.

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shape poem assignment

5th Shape Poetry Assignment (Light Bulb & Hot Air Balloon)

LIGHT BULB (assignment) 

A tender touch keeps me safe gently one can inflict pressure and crumble my existance, time after time I give you

exactly what is needed. Different shades, 

shapes, measures to enlighten at the end of

any tunnel. I supply just enough for the future  yet you unfold many others not appreciative  off then on again Love that hurts me so deep not to consider my own, I still forgive you and let you use me all over again daily  I perfom duties many would not   maybe now you will here me cry out, and do what

the light (kinda looks like an ornament....giggles)

_________________________________________________

HOT AIR BALLOON (assignment)

I fly high like a bird in the sky,  flowing with the wind that is pumped into my lungs, heat stirs my emotion. Slowly I gaze into the eyes below watching me..over and over again until I disappear.  Full of color sometimes of which you protray on different occasions, nevertheless I am equipped to maintain the maximum friends, lovers, associates...whatever you desire of me, I am there for the ride of a lifetime, what a wonderful experience

don't be afraid  to embrace the essence  of the

*         * *        * *         * *        * this is indeed something 

worth telling  in  pictures

of a lifetime.

(lol...looks funny, all my folks done feel out)

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Shape Poetry Assignment

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Students create their own shape poems based on the object or subject they decided to write their poem on. An engaging and fun way to get their thoughts going.

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Concrete Poem Generator - AI-Powered Visual Poetry Creation

Introduction to concrete poem generator.

Welcome to the Concrete Poem Generator! This innovative AI-powered tool is designed to help you craft beautiful and unique poetic shapes with your words. Whether you're a student, teacher, artist, or anyone passionate about poetry, our tool offers a dynamic way to express your creativity through visual poetry. Simply input your text, select a shape, and watch as the AI transforms your words into a stunning visual masterpiece. Ideal for educational projects, artistic endeavors, or personal expression, the Concrete Poem Generator supports multiple languages and themes, making it a versatile and powerful tool in the world of digital poetry.

Use Cases of Concrete Poem Generator

Educational purposes.

Teachers and educators can leverage the Concrete Poem Generator to introduce students to the concept of visual poetry. By turning their words into shapes, students get a tangible understanding of how form and content can combine to enhance meaning. For example, while teaching about nature, a teacher could help students create tree-shaped poems to deepen their understanding of environmental topics.

Language learning is also enriched through this tool. Students can write poems in their target language, enhancing both their vocabulary and engagement with the language in a creative manner. For instance, a French teacher can have students create heart-shaped poems to learn and practice romantic or love-related vocabulary.

Artistic Expression

Artists and poets can use the Concrete Poem Generator to add a new dimension to their work. By integrating words into specific shapes, they can create visually striking pieces that convey deeper poetic meaning. An artist might choose to create a peace symbol using words that discuss unity, harmony, and peace, thereby creating an impactful visual artwork.

Similarly, digital artists and graphic designers can incorporate poem shapes into their designs for book covers, posters, and other visual media, allowing for a seamless blend of text and art that captures attention and conveys messages effectively.

Personal Expression

Individuals looking to express their thoughts, feelings, or stories in a unique format can use the Concrete Poem Generator for personal projects. Whether it's creating a heart-shaped poem for a loved one, a star-shaped poem for a memorable event, or any other themed shape, this tool lets users encapsulate their emotions and share them visually.

Bloggers and social media influencers can also benefit by incorporating visually appealing poems into their posts, making their content more engaging and shareable. A lifestyle blogger, for example, might use the tool to create flower-shaped poems that complement their articles on gardening and nature.

Who Can Use Concrete Poem Generator?

Students and educators.

The Concrete Poem Generator is an excellent resource for students and educators. It provides an innovative way to explore language arts, helping students understand the relationship between text and visual forms. Teachers can use this tool to create engaging lesson plans and creative assignments, making learning more interactive and enjoyable.

Artists and Creatives

For artists and creatives, the Concrete Poem Generator offers a new medium to express their ideas. Whether used for visual art projects, graphic design, or experimental writing, this tool enables the creation of visually stunning poetic shapes that can enhance any artistic endeavor.

Language Enthusiasts

Language enthusiasts will find the Concrete Poem Generator to be a fascinating way to play with words and structures. It supports multiple languages, making it a versatile tool for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and complexity of different languages through visual poetry.

Personal Use

Individuals looking for a unique way to express their thoughts and emotions will love the Concrete Poem Generator. Whether creating personalized gifts, writing heartfelt messages, or simply experimenting with poetic forms, this tool offers endless possibilities for personal expression.

How to use Concrete Poem Generator

Step 1: enter your poem details.

Start by entering the details of your poem in the text input field. You can include themes, shapes, languages, and any specific words or phrases you want. This will help the AI to generate a poem that meets your requirements.

Step 2: Generate Your Poem

Once you've filled in the details, simply click the "Send Message" button. The AI bot will process your input and generate a concrete poem based on your specifications. This process only takes a few moments.

Step 3: Modify the Output if Needed

If the generated poem isn't exactly what you were looking for, you can refine it by sending a follow-up message. You can ask the AI to make the poem shorter, more detailed, or include additional elements. The AI will consider your feedback and regenerate the poem to better match your vision.

Frequently Asked Questions for Concrete Poem Generator

How do i use the concrete poem generator.

To use the Concrete Poem Generator, simply enter the details of what you want in the text input field and click the "Send Message" button. The AI bot will then generate your concrete poem. If you wish to make modifications, you can specify them in a follow-up message, such as making the poem shorter or more detailed.

Can I create poems in any language?

Absolutely! The Concrete Poem Generator supports multiple languages, allowing you to create unique, thematic poems in any language of your choice.

Is this tool free to use?

Yes, the Concrete Poem Generator is a free tool, designed to help you explore the art of visual poetry easily and creatively.

What kind of poems can I create with this tool?

You can create a wide variety of poems, each taking a unique shape or form that represents the theme or subject of your choice. Whether for educational purposes, artistic expression, or personal enjoyment, the possibilities are endless.

How can I adjust the output?

If you're not satisfied with the initial poem generated, you can ask the AI bot to make adjustments. Simply send a follow-up message with your requirements, such as "make it shorter," "add more detail," or even specific changes like altering certain words or phrases.

Can I use the generated poems for commercial purposes?

While the tool is primarily designed for personal and educational use, please review our terms of service to understand the limitations regarding commercial usage of generated content.

Is there a limit on the number of poems I can create?

There is no set limit on the number of poems you can create using the Concrete Poem Generator. Feel free to use the tool as much as you like to explore and enjoy the art of concrete poetry.

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  2. 2D Shape Poems and Rhymes

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  5. Shape Poems & Poetry KS1 and KS2 Powerpoint

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  5. Poem Recital Assignment For Creative Writing ❤️

  6. Shape Poetry explanation in English #poetry #concrete poetry #art #Shapepoetry

COMMENTS

  1. Examples of Shape Poems for Kids

    A shape poem brings poetry to another level for kids by putting words into shapes. Explore shape poems examples and how kids can make their own.

  2. How to Write a Shape Poem: 9 Examples of Shape Poems

    Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Sep 28, 2021 • 6 min read. A shape poem is written in the physical shape of an object that is related to the subject of the poem. Learn about more examples of shape poetry and how to write a shape poem below. Explore.

  3. ELA

    A poem about hate could be in the shape of a heart. On a sheet of paper (or a blank Google Doc), brainstorm a list of words about the topic. If you are doing this assignment as a final product in a unit of study, go back over your assignments and readings for inspiration.

  4. How to Write Shape Poems: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

    3. Draw the shape template on a piece of paper. If you would like to get more hands on, you can draw the shape on a piece of paper using your drawing skills and your imagination. You may use a stencil of the shape, depending on what it is, to ensure it is symmetrical and even.

  5. Teaching Concrete Poetry

    She slid a paper across the table to Mr. Grow. "This poem, 'Easter Wings,' was written by George Herbert in 1633. In the publication, it spread across two pages in the shape of a bird or butterfly.". The student teacher studied the poem. "In this classic concrete poetry, I see that the author did use rhythm and rhyme.

  6. How to Write a Concrete Poem

    The shape of the poem is a pun on the word tale/tail, as the words follow a long wiggling line getting smaller and smaller and ending in a point. The name "Concrete Poetry," however, is from the 1950's, when a group of Brazilian poets called the Noigandres held an international exhibition of their work, and then developed a "manifesto ...

  7. How To Write A Shape Poem: 9 Examples Of Shape Poems

    Pick the shape for your poem. Brainstorm a few idea shapes before you start writing, and pick shapes that are familiar and recognizable, like a bird, a car, or a balloon. The shape you pick will ...

  8. How To Write Shape Poetry

    Writing with fewer words is more effective in shape poetry. Eliminate any terms or phrases that you feel don't add to the poem's meaning. If a particular line has three or fewer words and involves two answers, or two-words that are in opposition with each other, then it is suitable for redaction.

  9. How To Write A Shape Poem Teaching Resources

    Power Point: explains how to write a shape poem. It goes through the rules, shares examples, and then gives instructions on how to write their own. 2. Shape Poem Graphic Organizer: breaks down the process and easily guides the student into creating their own shape poem.3. Printable Shapes: Shapes students can use to trace or use to help them ...

  10. Shape Poems

    Shape poems are a great way for children with a wide range of abilities to create a completed piece. There is no pressure to rhyme and the challenge of getting the words to fit the shape can help take some of the focus off writing. The poems can be short and there's a clear format to follow with a good amount of artistic licence.

  11. PDF This week we are learning all about shape poems

    ight, rainbow, sunshine, branches, wiggly, grow, shrink, bumpy, curlyRead the followin. shape poems. Sometimes the words create the outline of the shape, nd sometimes they fill the shape. As you read, think about how the wo. to the shape created. You could also look for your own on the i. ternet and in poetry bo. Tuesday.

  12. Concrete Poetry

    Experimenting with Poetry Unit Plan - Grade 5 and Grade 6 Lessons. 1 Poetry Defined 2 The Poet's Lament 3 Elements of Poetry 4 Structure, Rhyme and Rhythm 5 Sound Devices 6 Figurative Language 7 Idioms 8 Forms of Poetry 9 Concrete Poetry - Shape Poems 10 Humorous Poetry - Limericks 11 Descriptive Poetry - Odes 12 Narrative Poetry - Simple Ballads

  13. Concrete Poem

    In the realm of visual poetry, a concrete poem like Guillaume Apollinaire's 'Calligrammes' creates a unique artistic experience, where words and typography are artfully arranged to visually represent the poem's subject. Synonyms: Shape poem. Concrete poems are usually shaped or patterned in some way. The way the words are arranged on the page ...

  14. Shape Poems

    Shape poetry is a form of visual poetry in which the text is arranged into a specific shape, making it perfect for creative writing activities. Choose from a range of Year 1 and Year 2 shape poetry resources which include animals, hot air balloons, Easter eggs and more! Address gaps in student understanding using our broad range of ...

  15. Shape Poem Writing Worksheets & Teaching Resources

    Shape Poem Graphic Organizer: breaks down the process and easily guides the student into creating their own sha. Subjects: English Language Arts, Poetry. Grades: 2 nd - 12 th, Higher Education, Adult ... PRESENTATIONS, ASSIGNMENTS, & ACTIVITIES BUNDLE. Show more details. Wish List. Poetry Writing Unit - Activities, Templates, Anchor Chart ...

  16. Concrete Shape Poems by Vibrant Teaching- Angela Sutton

    Students can use the text boxes to type their responses and poems. The resource will be downloaded as a PDF. There will be directions and a link to access a copy in Google Slides. Use Google Classroom to create a new assignment and share it with your students. Also Check out: Poetry Writing Unit. Genre-Based Writing Prompts. Monthly Writing Prompts

  17. Plane Shape Poem Template [Teacher-Made Resource for Pupils]

    This Plane Shape Poem Template is a fantastic way to get children engaged in poetry and get them excited for their lessons. This sheet, once completed, could make a fantastic wall display and an awesome take-home assignment. Children will love seeing their work presented in their classroom or put on display in a home learning environment. This ...

  18. Diamante Poem Definition and Examples

    Diamante Poetry. Diamante is a popular poetic form that is made up of seven lines. They are formatted into the shape of a diamond and used to compare two opposites. The diamante poem, or diamond poem, was created by Iris Tiedt in A New Poetry Form: The Diamante, published in 1969. It is an unrhymed seven-line shape poem.

  19. Results for shape poem examples

    Browse shape poem examples resources on Teachers Pay Teachers, a marketplace trusted by millions of teachers for original educational resources.

  20. 5th Shape Poetry Assignment (Light Bulb & Hot Air Balloon)

    LIGHT BULB (assignment) / A tender touch / keeps me safe gently one / can inflict pressure and crumble my / existance, time after time I give you / exactly what. Published at the web's largest poetry site. ... 5th Shape Poetry Class Assignemtn taught by Celtic Moon. ...

  21. Shape Poetry Assignment by The Trend Savvy Teacher

    Shape Poetry Assignment. Previous Next; The Trend Savvy Teacher. 0 Followers. Follow. Grade Levels. 7 th - 8 th. Subjects. English Language Arts, Poetry. ... Students create their own shape poems based on the object or subject they decided to write their poem on. An engaging and fun way to get their thoughts going. Total Pages.

  22. Concrete Poem Generator

    The Concrete Poem Generator is an excellent resource for students and educators. It provides an innovative way to explore language arts, helping students understand the relationship between text and visual forms. Teachers can use this tool to create engaging lesson plans and creative assignments, making learning more interactive and enjoyable.