Ekphrasis
Ekphrasis is a vivid description of a scene or, more commonly, a work of art. Through the imaginative act of narrating and reflecting on the “action” of a painting or sculpture, the poet may amplify and expand its meaning.
via Poetry Foundation
Example
Anne Sexton wrote ‘Starry Night” about Van Gogh’s famous painting:
The town does not exist
except where one black-haired tree slips
up like a drowned woman into the hot sky.
The town is silent. The night boils with eleven stars.
Oh starry starry night! This is how
I want to die.
Prompt
When writing a poem inspired by a work of art, especially a realistic work, it is sometimes helpful to ask oneself “What happened before and after this scene took place?” to spark a poem. For abstract pieces, focus on the aspects that draw your attention. What emotions do they evoke? Let your emotions drive your poem forward.
SHARE
Resource written by:
