Did you know that Nobel Laureate,
Russian poet Joseph Brodsky was so taken with Christmas that he wrote a
Christmas poem every year (now collected in his book Nativity Poems)? Holiday poems and stories have an enduring appeal,
and most of you are familiar with Charles Dickens’s story about Scrooge, Tiny
Tim, and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and Christmas Yet to
Come. For this week’s poem, we’re going to do some variations on the past,
present, and future theme, and you’ll need to think about your past, present,
and future Christmases, Chanukahs, Kwanzaas, or other annual winter-season
celebrations.
Suggestions:
1. Write about a holiday about
your past (dig deeply into family memories).
2. Write a poem in which you
compare winter holidays of the past, present, and/or future.
3. Write about seasonal ghosts
that haunt you.
4. Write about people from your
past who are no longer with you and how that impacts your present holiday
season; or, write about one special person with whom you always associate the
winter holidays.
5. Write about aspects of winter
holiday traditions that remain part of your annual celebrations.
6. Write about the faith and/or
cultural aspects of your winter holidays.
7. Write about one unforgettable
winter holiday.
8. Write about holiday food
treats and how they sweeten your memories.
9. Write about a holiday song
that replays in your mind because of its associations (or, write your own words
to a Christmas carol or other winter holiday song).
10. Write a poem based on an old
Christmas, Chanukah, or other winter holiday photograph
11. Write about a historical
holiday-time event.
12. Write about a winter holiday
yet to come. You might consider a fantasy poem with a futuristic sensibility.
Keep in mind that holiday
literature can be tricky—be sure to sidestep the pitfalls of sentimentality,
schmaltziness, nostalgia, and clichés.
Examples:
Note: "Are We Done Yet?" is from Gail Gerwin’s new book, Dear Kinfolk, (155 pages, ChayaCairn Press, 2012, $18.00). Click book image to order; shipping is free.
The next prompt will be posted on Saturday, January 5, 2013.
I wish each of you the special gifts of this season
—happiness,
hope, and peace—
and a New Year filled with good health
and all the things
that bring you joy.
In poetry and sharing,
Adele
Adele
