Every poet has little rituals that bring them closer to the page. Maybe it’s a steaming cup of coffee before dawn, or the habit of drafting longhand with a favorite pen. Some poets read a poem aloud before writing, while others light a candle, put on music, or take a walk to clear their mind.
These rituals aren’t just quirks—they’re part of the creative process. They remind us to slow down, create space, and signal to our brains: it’s time to write.
Why Rituals Matter
Rituals create a bridge between the everyday world and the imaginative one. They help us shift gears, leaving behind distractions and entering a mindset where words can flow more freely. A ritual can also provide comfort. On days when writing feels intimidating, returning to a familiar routine—pouring that cup of coffee, arranging your desk just so—can make the process feel approachable again.
Examples of Writing Rituals
Writers throughout history have relied on their own unique rituals:
- Maya Angelou rented a hotel room to write, bringing only a dictionary, Bible, deck of cards, and a bottle of sherry.
- Virginia Woolf wrote while standing at a desk.
- Toni Morrison famously described watching the sunrise with a cup of coffee before writing, saying the ritual helped her “enter the day and the world with confidence.”
Your rituals don’t need to be elaborate. It might be as simple as setting a timer, opening your notebook, and breathing deeply three times before beginning.
Creating Your Own Ritual
If you don’t already have a writing ritual, experiment with building one this week. Here are a few ideas:
- Set the mood: Light a candle, play instrumental music, or sit by a window.
- Use a special object: A notebook, pen, or mug you only use while writing.
- Mark the time: Write at the same hour each day, even if only for ten minutes.
- Transition in: Read a favorite poem aloud before starting your own draft.
The Takeaway
Rituals are about creating consistency and connection. They don’t guarantee brilliance, but they do invite presence. Over time, your brain will begin to recognize the signals—this is writing time. And in that space, the words often come more easily.
So this week, ask yourself: what’s your writing ritual? If you don’t have one yet, perhaps it’s time to discover the small, steady practices that will carry you into your next poem.
Kentucky State Poetry Society 