Hey-o, Word-wielders,

Do you ever read a book bursting with gorgeous prose, reading like a novel infused with the pen of poetry? Have you ever wanted to write like that, but didn't know how?

If you think the above applies to you, read on.

The first step to writing poetic prose is to know the elements of poetry. Here's a few, along with examples:

• Alliteration (words that start with the same sound: She felt the flight of fluttering things follow her every footstep.)
• Repetition (Using a word or phrase repeatedly: The sea, the sea, the sea. It rolled and rolled and called to me. Come in, it said, come in. [The Wanderer by Sharon Creech])
• Symbolism (Using something to represent something, such as a sad scene being held in the rain or a floating scrap of abandoned paper reflecting how the character feels.

You may find this list useful.

Also, part of poetry is looking at things and trying to describe them beautifully. Thinking of a wet window not simply as that, but rather a rain-streaked window with a thousand tiny mirrors to echo the wonder of an after-storm world.

No, this may not come naturally to you, but it's a skill that can be learned. Reading poetry can help tune your mind to seeing things in a light like this.

Also, remember not to overdo it. Too much flowery language can distract your plot, confuse your audience, or be just plain annoying. Use your beautiful sentences wisely, and they will add  lovely gems to your prose.

So, once you understand how poetic devices are used, you can add the elements of poetry into your prose.

For example, consider the beautiful prologue of All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes, which you can read here. This prologue utilizes repetition, personification (writing about things that aren't people doing things that people do), and alliteration.

Remember, beautiful writing isn't the only style of writing. Some books are better suited to a sarcastic tone, a plain and simple one, or something else. Different books work best with different styles. 

May you live for Christ and give Him praise!

~Claira