Writing a Shape Poem

What is a shape poem?

A shape poem is a poem written in the shape of the thing it is about. A poem about the sun might be written inside a big round circle. A poem about a snake might wiggle down the page in a long, curvy line. Shape poems are also called concrete poems.

The best part? Shape poems do not have to rhyme. That makes them a perfect first poem to try. You just need good describing words and a fun shape.

Step 1: Pick an object

Choose something with a clear shape that is easy to draw. Good choices include:

• ☀️ a sun
• 🐍 a snake
• 🎈 a balloon
• 🌳 a tree
• ⭐ a star

Step 2: Gather your words

Before you draw anything, make a list of words about your object. Use your senses — how does it look, sound or feel? For a balloon you might write:

round, floaty, shiny, light, pop, colourful, bouncy

These describing words are the heart of your poem.

Step 3: Write in the shape

Now lightly draw the outline of your object in pencil. Then write your words along the outline so they follow the shape. When you rub out the pencil line, the words make the picture!

Here is a tiny sun poem written in a circle of words:

The sun is round and golden bright, it warms the world with happy light, it shines all day then says goodnight.

Tips for a great shape poem

• Use strong describing words so the reader can picture it.
• Keep lines short so they fit the shape.
• Read it aloud — does it sound nice?
• You can add a little rhyme if you want, but you do not have to.

Try it yourself

Pick an object, list five describing words, draw its outline, and write your words along it. Show your finished poem to a friend and see if they can guess the shape just from the words!

Want more poetry fun? Try playing with sounds in rhyming words. To find the best describing words for your poem, explore descriptive writing and the senses.