Writing Focus: Odes

When you’re so proud that you could burst, it can sometimes be difficult to express your emotions. In particular, some people struggle when it comes to conveying their feelings of pride in terms of other people. However, if you feel like you need to express your pride in a way that fits in with writing, ode poetry comes in to give you a platform!

What Is an Ode?

An ode is, quite simply, a poem dedicated to someone in particular. An ode is written in praise of the subject matter, and it is often used by poets to convey strong positive feelings towards a person, place or thing. They are also often characterised by flowering description and rolling descriptions of emotions felt.

Throughout the years, the structure of the English ode has changed, but they often use iambic pentameter, three stanzas and a standard ‘ABABCDCD…’ rhyme scheme.

Tips

To begin with, simply get down what you want to say on paper without structure. This means that you will have everything you need on paper, and you can go back and edit it into the traditional English ode structure when you are finished.

Don’t worry if you sound soppy! Odes are all about discussing something that’s special to you and if that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside then write it. Odes are meant to be a little bit soppy and praising, so you’re not doing anything wrong by pouring the positive emotions out onto the page.

Prompts

Looking to branch out and write a few odes? These prompts might help you along the way!

1. Write an ode about a good friend that encompasses everything they do that makes you like them as a person.
2. Think of your favourite place in the whole world and write an ode describing that place and how it makes you feel.

If you’re ready to let an outpouring of positive emotions about someone, somewhere or something out onto the page, then you’re ready to write an ode. Take that positive emotion and turn it into a piece of beautiful poetry.

Special thanks to losing control. and silent hearts. for editing.