menu Language Is A Virus

Poem Builder

The Poem Builder will show you 3 flip cards to help you build a poem.

  1. The first card reveals the subject of the poem, a spark to ignite the imagination.
  2. The second card suggests a poetic form, a structure within which to shape the words.
  3. And the third card offers a bounty of language, a treasure trove of words to be woven into the fabric of the poem.

Hover over each image below to reveal the choices:

Look below the flip cards for the poetic form definition and how-to.

Subject:

Write about:

Culture and heritage

Poem Form:

In this format:

Intentional Mistranslation Poem

Definition: An intentional mistranslation poem is a type of poetry in which the poet intentionally mistranslates a word or phrase to create a new meaning or imagery.

How-to: Intentionally mistranslating a word or phrase from one language to another is a challenging and exciting way to explore language and meaning. Consider how the new word or phrase changes the meaning of the original and opens up new possibilities for imagery and metaphor. Pay attention to the sounds, rhythms, and meanings of the words, and let the mistranslation guide you as you explore new territory. The goal is to use the mistranslation as a tool to explore the depths of language and meaning, not to create a literal translation.

(definition below images)

Words:

Use these words:

  1. wolf
  2. tears
  3. fungi
  4. eyes
  5. whisper
  6. bleed
  7. linger
  8. silent
  9. stroboscopic
  10. shapeless

Intentional Mistranslation Poem

Definition: An intentional mistranslation poem is a type of poetry in which the poet intentionally mistranslates a word or phrase to create a new meaning or imagery.

How-to: Intentionally mistranslating a word or phrase from one language to another is a challenging and exciting way to explore language and meaning. Consider how the new word or phrase changes the meaning of the original and opens up new possibilities for imagery and metaphor. Pay attention to the sounds, rhythms, and meanings of the words, and let the mistranslation guide you as you explore new territory. The goal is to use the mistranslation as a tool to explore the depths of language and meaning, not to create a literal translation.

Free Stock photos by Vecteezy