2024 April PAD Challenge: Day 21

April 21, 2024

Once we get through today’s poem, we’ll be finished with the first three weeks of this challenge. Where has the time gone?

For today’s prompt, write a trope poem. For most people, tropes are common plot devices used in certain genres. In romance, for example, the “different worlds” trope brings together two characters from different walks of life and/or cultures. Meanwhile, a popular trope in horror fiction is to split up, which usually doesn’t end well for many of the characters. Mysteries frequently feature the “unassuming suspect” trope. Pick a trope or mix a few in your poem today.

If you need help getting started, check out these lists of popular tropes:

Remember: These prompts are springboards to creativity. Use them to expand your possibilities, not limit them.

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Later this month, be sure to check out the 3rd annual Writer’s Digest Poetry Writing Virtual Conference with four great presentations put on by award-winning poets covering a variety of topics, including how to put together poetry collections and bring fresh insight to familiar ideas.

Click here to learn more.

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Here’s my attempt at a Trope Poem:

“one last scare”

There’s always time for one last scare
when it seems like the story’s done.
Even though it doesn’t feel fair,
there’s always time for one last scare
when the threat shouldn’t even dare,
but that’s what makes horror so fun,
because there’s always that last scare
when it seems like the story’s done.

(Note on form: I once again reverted to the triolet, but you can find plenty of poetic forms to play with here.)