How to Write an Alphabet Poem

Alphabet poetry is one of the simplest forms of poetry. Like acrostic poetry, the first letter of each line in an alphabet poem is significant.

In an alphabet poem, each line begins with a new letter of the alphabet (in alphabetical order).

What types of alphabet poetry exist?

Alphabet poetry may be extremely basic (using one-word or two-word lines), slightly more complex (employing single-sentence lines) or quite tricky (including rhyme and meter).

As a variation, a reverse alphabet poem may also be created.

Here's how to construct each of these forms of alphabet poetry.

How to write an alphabet poem with single words:

This primary form of alphabet poetry is easy to do. Even young children can begin by writing the entire alphabet, "A" to "Z," in a single column on a sheet of paper.

To create an alphabet poem with single words, the poet fills in one word for each letter of the alphabet. These words may fit a common theme (such as animals, candy bars, feelings, foods or any other topic), or they may seem rather random.

Here's an example of the beginning of a basic alphabet poem, using one-word lines:

Amazing
Beautiful
Colossal
Delicious
Enticing

Often, the reader may not guess the actual subject of a skillfully constructed single-word-line alphabet poem until the final lines.

Alphabet poetry may also employ single-syllables, two-word lines or any similar multiple the poet desires to use.

How to write an alphabet poem with sentences:

This more advanced form of alphabet poetry offers room for more detail and depth. Still, children and adults alike may practice whole-sentence alphabet poetry.

To create an alphabet poetry with entire sentences, the poet begins by writing (or typing) the entire alphabet, "A" to "Z," in a single column on a sheet of paper. Next, the writer fills in one sentence for each letter of the alphabet.

Here's an example of the beginning of an alphabet poem, using entire sentences:

Anyone can write alphabet poetry.
Basically, you begin with the alphabet, "A" to "Z."
Clever constructions add color.
Do you dare to describe deeds alphabetically?
Everyone enjoys entertaining enterprises.

The most skilled alphabet poets add alliteration, using multiple words that begin with the same letter in each line of their alphabet poems.

How to write an alphabet poem with rhyme and meter:

This form of alphabet poetry is the most difficult to do, but it can also be the most creative and fun.

To create an alphabet poetry with rhyme and meter the poet begins by writing (or typing) the line for each letter of the alphabet. The lines must carry rhythm and poetic meter and end with rhyming words, using the poet's choice of rhyme scheme. Common rhyme schemes include ABAB, ABBA and AABB.

Here's an example of the beginning of an alphabet poem, using both rhyme and meter:

Alive and well, I stood my ground
Before I even made a sound.
Considered caution held my charge
Despite the danger, looming large.

How to create a reverse alphabet poem:

A reverse alphabet poem is, quite simply, the opposite of a basic alphabet poem. The reverse alphabet poem begins with the letter "Z" and works all the way back to "A."

What makes alphabet poetry special?

Alphabet poetry is easy to learn, making it ideal for beginning poets. Early elementary education teachers often create alphabet poems with their classes, as this form of poetry offers a wonderful review of the basic alphabet.

Of course, the simplest alphabetic poems of all may read something like this:

A is for apple.
B is for bear.
C is for cat.

... and so on.

Note: Alphabet poetry samples included in this article are copyrighted by Linda Ann Nickerson. Copying or reprinting without permission is prohibited.