Creative writing is an enjoyable way to write freely without the binding aspects of typical, everyday technical and academic writing. There are many forms of creative writing, with the most popular being short works of fiction and poetry. Some people argue that creative writing cannot be taught, but there are general characteristics of it that can be explained. Creative writing can also be a form of free writing. This can be something specifically planned out if ideas have already been thought up or something written without a prompt at all.
One type of creative writing that can be especially pleasurable is poetry. Poetry can be such a satisfying thing to write because it allows you the chance to not have to adhere to the mechanics and conventions of grammar, spelling and punctuation that we must abide by on a regular basis. “Repetition and error is allowed and even encouraged, since the mind can be weighed down with a focus on structure” (Stevens 2002-2010). As the writer, this really gives you a freedom you do not normally have. You can write what you feel and whatever you want, with or without reason, and produce a piece of writing that is truly your own.
Poetry also gives you the opportunity to use figurative language, something also rarely seen in technical pieces of writing. Figurative language is a way for us to use figures of speech to say things in unconventional ways. It is a way to exaggerate or mix up the literal meaning of words. For example, you could use metaphors to make connections between two unlike things, or you could use personification and give human qualities to inanimate objects. There are endless types of figurative language, giving you an immense chance to have fun with your truly original, creative writing. The best part of the process will be reading over what you wrote and sharing it with those close to you!
Works Cited
Stevens, S. (2002-2010). Creative Writing Techniques: The Benefits and Basics of Free Writing. Retrieved June 8, 2010, from Helium: http://www.helium.com/items/1282922-how-to-freewrite