Amanda Gorman Teaches Writing and Performing Poetry

Armin van Buuren Teaches Dance Music

Billy Collins Teaches Reading and Writing Poetry

Christina Aguilera Teaches Singing

Helen Mirren Teaches Acting

Herbie Hancock Teaches Jazz

Joy Harjo Teaches Poetic Thinking

Nas Teaches Hip-Hop Storytelling

Questlove Teaches Music Curation and DJing

Salman Rushdie Teaches Storytelling and Writing

Sheila E. Teaches Drumming and Percussion 

Timbaland Teaches Producing and Beatmaking

Tom Morello Teaches Electric Guitar

Walter Mosley Teaches Fiction and Storytelling

Shakespeare, Part 1

Before Performing, Watch

The Performance Toolkit

Case Study: Performance of Poetry

Rapping and Rhyme Schemes 

Deliver Your Poetry Dynamically

Meet Your Instructor

Imagery and Form

Shakespeare, Part 2

Discovering the Subject

Writing the Poem

Discussion With Marie Howe: Emily Dickinson

Sound Pleasures

Turning a Poem

Discussion With Marie Howe: "What the Living Do"

Humor as a Serious Strategy

A Poet's Journey

Everyone Can Write Poetry

Elevate the Ordinary With Poetic Techniques

Mapping Representation

Enhance Life With Poetic Insight

The Beat

Introduction

Making a Beat: Tweaking and Layering Drums

Making a Beat: Creating a Breakdown

Improvising Alone

Finding Melodic Inspiration

Riff Rock Writing: Verses and Multitracking

Finding Your Rhythm 

Playing the Timbales 

Experimenting With Percussion 

Meet Your Instructor: Questlove

Gathering Music: Organizing and Pruning

Training Your Ears to Listen

Evoke Emotion With Novel Techniques

Going Into Difficult Places

Honoring the Source

Poetry Ancestors

Using Poetry to Understand Language

Introduction: The Pleasure Poetry Gives Us

Working With Form

Finding Your Voice: Influences

Student Discussion: "My (Muslim) Father Seizes the Thing on My Nightstand" by Sarah Iqbal

How to Start Writing

Building Your Career as a Poet

Breakthrough: Behind the Scenes of “The Hill We Climb”

Express Profound Truths Through Poetry

Descriptive and Vivid Language

Writing Process

Discussion With Marie Howe: William Shakespeare

Playing a Visible Game

Student Discussion: "The Crash" by Paul Epland

Case Study: Close Reading - “On The Pulse of Morning” 

The Writing Toolkit

Revision, Revision, Revision 

Case Study: Editing & Revision 

Developing Your Narrative Style

Using Poetic Lyrical Techniques

Illustrate With Lyrical Poetry

Writing

Teaches Dramatic Writing

David Mamet

David Mamet Teaches Dramatic Writing

Teaches Poetic Thinking

Joy Harjo

Teaches Investigative Journalism

Bob Woodward

Bob Woodward Teaches Investigative Journalism

Teaches Creative Writing

Margaret Atwood

Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing

Lessons from Influential Black Voices

Black History, Black Freedom, and Black Love

Teaches Mystery and Thriller Writing

David Baldacci

David Baldacci Teaches Mystery and Thriller Writing

Teaches Documentary Filmmaking

Ken Burns

Ken Burns Teaches Documentary Filmmaking

Teaches Fiction and Storytelling

Walter Mosley

Teaches Writing for Television

Shonda Rhimes

Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing for Television

Teaches Writing

James Patterson

James Patterson Teaches Writing

Scripting Your Own Success

Mindy Kaling

Teaches Reading and Writing Poetry

Billy Collins

Teaches the Power of Storytelling

LeVar Burton

Teaches the Power of Storytelling 

LeVar Burton Teaches the Power of Storytelling

Teaches Storytelling and Humor

David Sedaris

David Sedaris Teaches Storytelling and Humor

Teaches Writing and Performing Poetry

Amanda Gorman

Teaches Screenwriting

Aaron Sorkin

Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting

Icons and Their Influences

Talking Shop

Malcolm Gladwell

Malcolm Gladwell Teaches Writing

Teaches the Art of the Short Story

Joyce Carol Oates

Joyce Carol Oates Teaches the Art of the Short Story

Teaches Game Design and Theory

Will Wright

Will Wright Teaches Game Design and Theory

Teaches Purposeful Communication

George Stephanopoulos

George Stephanopoulos Teaches Purposeful Communication

Teach Developing an Original TV Series

The Duffer Brothers

The Duffer Brothers Teach Developing an Original TV Series

Teaches Fantasy and Science Fiction Writing

N. K. Jemisin

N. K. Jemisin Teaches Fantasy and Science Fiction Writing

Teaches Storytelling and Writing

Salman Rushdie

Judy Blume

Judy Blume Teaches Writing

Teaches Fiction, Memory, and Imagination

Amy Tan

Amy Tan Teaches Fiction, Memory, and Imagination

Teaches Writing Thrillers

Dan Brown

Dan Brown Teaches Writing Thrillers

Teaches Creating Outside the Lines

Issa Rae

Issa Rae Teaches Creating Outside the Lines

Teaches Writing for Young Audiences

R.L. Stine

R.L. Stine Teaches Writing for Young Audiences

Michael Lewis

Tell a Great Story

Teaches Writing for Social Change

Roxane Gay

Roxane Gay Teaches Writing for Social Change

Teaches Creativity and Film

David Lynch

David Lynch Teaches Creativity and Film

Guided by Leading Experts

Achieve More With GenAI

Reframe Your Thinking

Ava DuVernay

Teaches Effective and Authentic Communication

Robin Roberts

Robin Roberts Teaches Effective and Authentic Communication

Self-expression is the process of engaging in activities you believe exemplify your innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires. If you look in a thesaurus, synonyms for self-expression include concepts like [creativity](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-creativity) or imagination. In its purest essence, self-expression is [self-awareness](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-self-awareness) in action. 

As a unique individual, your own personal definition of self-expression might differ from just about everyone else’s. For one person, it might look like [journaling](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/joyce-carol-oates-on-the-importance-of-journaling) and singing along to their favorite songs. For another, it might look like making a meal from scratch and doing [stand-up comedy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-stand-up-comedy-in-6-easy-steps) at a local open mic night. This is just one of the beauties of self-expression: It’s always individualized.
The importance of self-expression lies in its ability to effect self-discovery. To know yourself, you need to try new things. As you express yourself through these activities, you will realize you have self-existent and innate talents you might have never discovered had you avoided getting out of your comfort zone. Additionally, if you don’t express yourself, it can take a major toll on your [mental health](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health) and sense of overall wellness.
There are limitless ways to express who you are. Here are just five key forms of self-expression you can consider:

1. __Art__: Whether you paint, sketch, or sculpt, art can be an amazing medium in which to express yourself. It’s one of the earliest means of self-expression known to humankind. Stretching back to the days of cave paintings, human beings have made making pictures of the world around them a formative part of their identities.
2. __Fashion__: The clothes you wear can help express your inner self. People use their fashion sense to announce who they are and what they like. Think of how often you can guess the sort of music a person listens to just by the clothes they’re wearing. Fashion is one of the foremost forms of freedom of expression. Some people go one step further and begin designing their own clothes or embark on a career as a full-fledged [fashion designer](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-fashion-designer).
3. __Music__: Playing an instrument or singing is a great opportunity to express yourself. Songs allow people to wed poetry with melody, announcing who they are, what they believe, and what they’ve experienced. You don’t even have to learn how to play music to express yourself through it. By listening to your favorite bands and artists, you relate to their own self-expression and come to a better understanding of yourself, too.
4. __Theater__: Whether you’re on Broadway in New York or on stage at your local community theater, theatrical performances can help you express yourself by taking on the role of another person. [Acting](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/samuel-l-jacksons-acting-tips) is the process of using your own experience to depict that of another human being—your own self informs the character. Other forms of [public speaking](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-public-speaking) and performance can help you build confidence and express yourself, too.
5. __Writing__: Putting pen to paper or typing words on your screen will help you achieve a great deal of personal growth. Maybe you’ll find solace in writing [blog posts](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-blog-post) about your everyday life. Perhaps you’ll enjoy writing [fiction](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/rules-for-writing-fiction) or [poetry](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-poem). Writing can be one of the best ways to express who you are.
Learning to express yourself will make your life richer and more fulfilling. Keep these tips in mind as you develop self-expression skills of your own:

- __Develop self-confidence__. As you learn to express yourself, you’ll also begin to build up your [self-esteem](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem). The same proves true in reverse, too. Go against the grain and let go of societal expectations. Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. 
- __Say what you mean__. Authentic self-expression requires honesty. No matter which medium you use to express yourself, always strive to be yourself rather than someone else. Sometimes you’ll learn even more about who you are through the process.
- __Spend time alone__. To express yourself, you need to delve into your own personal story. Spend moments in quiet [reflection](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/reflective-thinking). Think about the things that make you come alive. The more self-awareness you obtain, the better you’ll be able to express yourself in a fulfilling way. 
- __Try different creative activities__. There are endless ways to express yourself. Whether it’s trying out for team sports or speaking in public for the first time, try new things. Make jokes about your own personality in a stand-up routine. Try out [problem-solving](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving) and strategy games with your friends. Learn to play an instrument. Write down your unabridged thoughts in a journal. 
- __Work with others__. Sometimes the best way to find your inner self is by partnering with other people engaged in similar pursuits. Spending time with like-minded creative friends can feel like your home away from home. You’ll find [validation](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/validation-in-relationships) among your peers that what you’re doing is worthwhile and important. Along the way, you’ll discover the likes, dislikes, and talents that make you *you*, while helping others find their true selves in the process.
Figuring out what you want to do next and how to get there? Learn how to embrace your passions with a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and find the grit to take control of your life with exclusive access to video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Robin Arzón, Elaine Welteroth, Hillary Rodham Clinton, RuPaul, and more.
Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.

Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.

Self-Expression Examples and Tips: How to Express Yourself

Self-expression is the process of engaging in activities you believe exemplify your innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires. If you look in a thesaurus, synonyms for self-expression include concepts like <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-creativity' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-creativity","linkCopy":"creativity","category":null}'>creativity</a> or imagination. In its purest essence, self-expression is <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-self-awareness' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-self-awareness","linkCopy":"self-awareness","category":null}'>self-awareness</a> in action. As a unique individual, your own personal definition of self-expression might differ from just about everyone else’s. For one person, it might look like <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/joyce-carol-oates-on-the-importance-of-journaling' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/joyce-carol-oates-on-the-importance-of-journaling","linkCopy":"journaling","category":null}'>journaling</a> and singing along to their favorite songs. For another, it might look like making a meal from scratch and doing <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-stand-up-comedy-in-6-easy-steps' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-stand-up-comedy-in-6-easy-steps","linkCopy":"stand-up comedy","category":null}'>stand-up comedy</a> at a local open mic night. This is just one of the beauties of self-expression: It’s always individualized.

What Is Self-Expression?

The importance of self-expression lies in its ability to effect self-discovery. To know yourself, you need to try new things. As you express yourself through these activities, you will realize you have self-existent and innate talents you might have never discovered had you avoided getting out of your comfort zone. Additionally, if you don’t express yourself, it can take a major toll on your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health","linkCopy":"mental health","category":null}'>mental health</a> and sense of overall wellness.

Why Is Self-Expression Important?

There are limitless ways to express who you are. Here are just five key forms of self-expression you can consider:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Art: Whether you paint, sketch, or sculpt, art can be an amazing medium in which to express yourself. It’s one of the earliest means of self-expression known to humankind. Stretching back to the days of cave paintings, human beings have made making pictures of the world around them a formative part of their identities. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Fashion: The clothes you wear can help express your inner self. People use their fashion sense to announce who they are and what they like. Think of how often you can guess the sort of music a person listens to just by the clothes they’re wearing. Fashion is one of the foremost forms of freedom of expression. Some people go one step further and begin designing their own clothes or embark on a career as a full-fledged <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-fashion-designer' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-fashion-designer","linkCopy":"fashion designer","category":null}'>fashion designer</a>. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Music: Playing an instrument or singing is a great opportunity to express yourself. Songs allow people to wed poetry with melody, announcing who they are, what they believe, and what they’ve experienced. You don’t even have to learn how to play music to express yourself through it. By listening to your favorite bands and artists, you relate to their own self-expression and come to a better understanding of yourself, too. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Theater: Whether you’re on Broadway in New York or on stage at your local community theater, theatrical performances can help you express yourself by taking on the role of another person. <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/samuel-l-jacksons-acting-tips' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/samuel-l-jacksons-acting-tips","linkCopy":"Acting","category":null}'>Acting</a> is the process of using your own experience to depict that of another human being—your own self informs the character. Other forms of <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-public-speaking' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-public-speaking","linkCopy":"public speaking","category":null}'>public speaking</a> and performance can help you build confidence and express yourself, too. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Writing: Putting pen to paper or typing words on your screen will help you achieve a great deal of personal growth. Maybe you’ll find solace in writing <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-blog-post' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-blog-post","linkCopy":"blog posts","category":null}'>blog posts</a> about your everyday life. Perhaps you’ll enjoy writing <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/rules-for-writing-fiction' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/rules-for-writing-fiction","linkCopy":"fiction","category":null}'>fiction</a> or <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-poem' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-poem","linkCopy":"poetry","category":null}'>poetry</a>. Writing can be one of the best ways to express who you are. </li></ol>

5 Self-Expression Examples

Learning to express yourself will make your life richer and more fulfilling. Keep these tips in mind as you develop self-expression skills of your own:<ul class="mc-m-4 list-styled"><li class="">Develop self-confidence. As you learn to express yourself, you’ll also begin to build up your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem","linkCopy":"self-esteem","category":null}'>self-esteem</a>. The same proves true in reverse, too. Go against the grain and let go of societal expectations. Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. </li><li class="">Say what you mean. Authentic self-expression requires honesty. No matter which medium you use to express yourself, always strive to be yourself rather than someone else. Sometimes you’ll learn even more about who you are through the process. </li><li class="">Spend time alone. To express yourself, you need to delve into your own personal story. Spend moments in quiet <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/reflective-thinking' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/reflective-thinking","linkCopy":"reflection","category":null}'>reflection</a>. Think about the things that make you come alive. The more self-awareness you obtain, the better you’ll be able to express yourself in a fulfilling way. </li><li class="">Try different creative activities. There are endless ways to express yourself. Whether it’s trying out for team sports or speaking in public for the first time, try new things. Make jokes about your own personality in a stand-up routine. Try out <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving","linkCopy":"problem-solving","category":null}'>problem-solving</a> and strategy games with your friends. Learn to play an instrument. Write down your unabridged thoughts in a journal. </li><li class="">Work with others. Sometimes the best way to find your inner self is by partnering with other people engaged in similar pursuits. Spending time with like-minded creative friends can feel like your home away from home. You’ll find <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/validation-in-relationships' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/validation-in-relationships","linkCopy":"validation","category":null}'>validation</a> among your peers that what you’re doing is worthwhile and important. Along the way, you’ll discover the likes, dislikes, and talents that make you you, while helping others find their true selves in the process. </li></ul>

How to Express Yourself

Figuring out what you want to do next and how to get there? Learn how to embrace your passions with a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a> and find the grit to take control of your life with exclusive access to video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Robin Arzón, Elaine Welteroth, Hillary Rodham Clinton, RuPaul, and more.

You’re Worth It

Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.

Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.


Woman practicing self expression through painting.

self-expression

Follow this step-by-step prompt to write a poem about yourself:

- __Begin freewriting__. Before selecting a poetic form, [rhyme scheme](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-rhyme-scheme-learn-about-10-different-poetry-rhyme-schemes), and literary devices for your own poem, try starting with a warm-up writing exercise. Open your journal or word processor, and jot down thoughts related to your topic—in this case, yourself and your own life. Small writing prompts can help focus your brainstorming session: What are details about yourself you have noticed during this time of reflection? How do you feel? What thoughts float across your mind, and what do they say about you? What are some of your favorite things or memories? What or who do you love? What are you afraid of? Remember that your answers to these questions aren’t <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-great-first-line-for-your-novel' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-great-first-line-for-your-novel","linkCopy":"the first lines","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>the first lines</a> of a free verse poem just yet (though you might use some of what you’ve written later), so don’t worry about word choice. 
- __Assemble, omit, and add__. After you freewrite and have notes related to yourself, examine the material you have. Be playful and experimental, and allow your creativity to take over. Add line breaks and play with rhyme. Think about the poem sound and the ideas that come together. Remove [clichés](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/writing-101-what-is-a-cliche-learn-when-to-use-cliches-in-writing-and-20-common-cliches-all-writers-should-avoid)—overly familiar phrases—to take your poem in surprising directions. 
- __Take some time away, then repeat__. The first draft of your poem rarely becomes your final product. Allow yourself distance from the draft to see it again with new eyes. Maybe you will realize you could expand it into a short story or prose poem. Since the poem is about you, take time to remember other sides of yourself or see how you write about yourself on a different day. 
Explore different ways to get new ideas for writing poetry about yourself:

1. __Gather new words__. Allow compelling words to lead your thoughts. Use a thesaurus or rhyming dictionary to collect new words that remind you of personal memories of your traits. 
2. __Try a poetic form__. Poetic forms provide a structure that can come in handy when writing your poem. For a type of poem with a limited length, try a [haiku](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-haiku-in-4-easy-steps), a [villanelle](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-villanelle), or a [sonnet](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/poetry-101-what-is-a-sonnet-sonnet-definition-with-examples-plus-write-your-own-sonnet). 
3. __Use literary devices__. Style is part of the fun when writing about yourself. Try to pick one [literary device](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/22-essential-literary-devices) to work into your draft to see how it affects the language. For example, try using a [simile](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-simile). Similes describe one thing as being like a completely different thing. Write a completely random simile, then read over it to see how it sounds. “I am like a melting castle” might sound strange at first, but you may feel there’s a kernel of truth that leads you to your next lines. When you run out of ideas, try a new random simile.
Become a better writer with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Billy Collins, Joy Harjo, Neil Gaiman, Walter Mosley, Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, and more.
Poetry writing is one of the oldest forms of art in the world, and you don’t need a <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing","linkCopy":"creative writing","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>creative writing</a> degree to participate. There are all kinds of genres, subgenres, styles, traditions, and schools of poetry. As a beginner, you may find the innumerable options daunting, but you can start with a subject you know better than anyone else: yourself. Learn how to write a poem about yourself in a few steps.

Poetry writing is one of the oldest forms of art in the world, and you don’t need a <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing","linkCopy":"creative writing","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>creative writing</a> degree to participate. There are all kinds of genres, subgenres, styles, traditions, and schools of poetry. As a beginner, you may find the innumerable options daunting, but you can start with a subject you know better than anyone else: yourself. Learn how to write a poem about yourself in a few steps.

How to Write a Poem About Yourself in 3 Steps

Follow this step-by-step prompt to write a poem about yourself:<ul class="mc-m-4 list-styled"><li class="">Begin freewriting. Before selecting a poetic form, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-rhyme-scheme-learn-about-10-different-poetry-rhyme-schemes' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-rhyme-scheme-learn-about-10-different-poetry-rhyme-schemes","linkCopy":"rhyme scheme","category":null}'>rhyme scheme</a>, and literary devices for your own poem, try starting with a warm-up writing exercise. Open your journal or word processor, and jot down thoughts related to your topic—in this case, yourself and your own life. Small writing prompts can help focus your brainstorming session: What are details about yourself you have noticed during this time of reflection? How do you feel? What thoughts float across your mind, and what do they say about you? What are some of your favorite things or memories? What or who do you love? What are you afraid of? Remember that your answers to these questions aren’t <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-great-first-line-for-your-novel' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-great-first-line-for-your-novel","linkCopy":"the first lines","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>the first lines</a> of a free verse poem just yet (though you might use some of what you’ve written later), so don’t worry about word choice. </li><li class="">Assemble, omit, and add. After you freewrite and have notes related to yourself, examine the material you have. Be playful and experimental, and allow your creativity to take over. Add line breaks and play with rhyme. Think about the poem sound and the ideas that come together. Remove <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/writing-101-what-is-a-cliche-learn-when-to-use-cliches-in-writing-and-20-common-cliches-all-writers-should-avoid' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/writing-101-what-is-a-cliche-learn-when-to-use-cliches-in-writing-and-20-common-cliches-all-writers-should-avoid","linkCopy":"clichés","category":null}'>clichés</a>—overly familiar phrases—to take your poem in surprising directions. </li><li class="">Take some time away, then repeat. The first draft of your poem rarely becomes your final product. Allow yourself distance from the draft to see it again with new eyes. Maybe you will realize you could expand it into a short story or prose poem. Since the poem is about you, take time to remember other sides of yourself or see how you write about yourself on a different day. </li></ul>

How to Write a Poem About Yourself

Explore different ways to get new ideas for writing poetry about yourself:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Gather new words. Allow compelling words to lead your thoughts. Use a thesaurus or rhyming dictionary to collect new words that remind you of personal memories of your traits. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Try a poetic form. Poetic forms provide a structure that can come in handy when writing your poem. For a type of poem with a limited length, try a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-haiku-in-4-easy-steps' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-haiku-in-4-easy-steps","linkCopy":"haiku","category":null}'>haiku</a>, a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-villanelle' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-villanelle","linkCopy":"villanelle","category":null}'>villanelle</a>, or a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/poetry-101-what-is-a-sonnet-sonnet-definition-with-examples-plus-write-your-own-sonnet' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/poetry-101-what-is-a-sonnet-sonnet-definition-with-examples-plus-write-your-own-sonnet","linkCopy":"sonnet","category":null}'>sonnet</a>. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Use literary devices. Style is part of the fun when writing about yourself. Try to pick one <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/22-essential-literary-devices' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/22-essential-literary-devices","linkCopy":"literary device","category":null}'>literary device</a> to work into your draft to see how it affects the language. For example, try using a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-simile' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-simile","linkCopy":"simile","category":null}'>simile</a>. Similes describe one thing as being like a completely different thing. Write a completely random simile, then read over it to see how it sounds. “I am like a melting castle” might sound strange at first, but you may feel there’s a kernel of truth that leads you to your next lines. When you run out of ideas, try a new random simile. </li></ol>

3 Tips for Writing a Poem About Yourself

Become a better writer with the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a>. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Billy Collins, Joy Harjo, Neil Gaiman, Walter Mosley, Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, and more.

Want to Learn More About Writing?

Poetry writing is one of the oldest forms of art in the world, and you don’t need a <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing","linkCopy":"creative writing","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>creative writing</a> degree to participate. There are all kinds of genres, subgenres, styles, traditions, and schools of poetry. As a beginner, you may find the innumerable options daunting, but you can start with a subject you know better than anyone else: yourself. Learn how to write a poem about yourself in a few steps.

Poetry writing is one of the oldest forms of art in the world, and you don’t need a <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/creative-writing-vs-content-writing","linkCopy":"creative writing","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>creative writing</a> degree to participate. There are all kinds of genres, subgenres, styles, traditions, and schools of poetry. As a beginner, you may find the innumerable options daunting, but you can start with a subject you know better than anyone else: yourself. Learn how to write a poem about yourself in a few steps.

An over-the-shoulder view of a person writing in a notebook. 

how-to-write-a-poem-about-yourself

Slam poetry is a type of spoken-word poetry that poets perform live at competitions called poetry slams. A slam poem is a performance art piece where speakers engage in powerful self-expression focusing on both content and sound—this can have a [rhyme scheme](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-rhyme-scheme-learn-about-10-different-poetry-rhyme-schemes) or be unrhymed ([free verse](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/poetry-101-what-is-the-difference-between-blank-verse-and-free-verse)) and may contain elements of hip-hop, folk music, or jazz to enhance the rhythmic presentation. Slam poetry performances require participants to memorize their poems, have expressive body language (like gestures), enunciate, and make eye contact with the audience. In a poetry slam, slam poets perform their work for viewers and a panel of judges, competing in multiple rounds to reach the top position. 
While spoken-word and performance poetry have existed since antiquity, the poetry slam as a modern art form has its roots in the 1980s:

- __1984__: Slam poetry first arose in 1984 as an idea of poet Marc Smith, who wanted a way to break poetry out from the stiffness of academic poetry readings and offer it to a broader and more diverse audience of listeners and writers. Smith held the first poetry slam in Chicago in November 1984. 
- __Late 1980s__: After Smith’s inaugural poetry slam, local slams began to pop up in nearby venues—in 1987 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, as the Ann Arbor Poetry Slam, and by Bob Holman in 1988 to New York City’s Nuyorican Poets Café. 
- __1990s__: In 1990, the first National Poetry Slam took place, with poets from all over the United States traveling to San Francisco to compete for audiences. By 1999, the National Poetry Slam was well-known, and several prominent news stations recorded and broadcasted the event. 
- __Today__: Since the spread of poetry slams both nationally and internationally, slam poetry has become a major force in the literary world. There are several major events for annual slam competitions—including the US’s National Poetry Slam, the European Poetry Slam Championship, the individual World Poetry Slam, the Poetry Slam World Cup, and the Women of the World Poetry Slam—as well as regular local events happening in communities all over the globe. 
While there are no official rules that all slam poetry events must follow, there are a handful of common conventions:

- __A time limit__: Most poetry slams enforce a time limit to ensure all the performers have enough time. Three minutes is a standard.
- __Judges from the audience__: One of the prevalent features of a poetry slam is the panel of judges, typically composed of randomly selected members of the audience. These judges evaluate the poets based on content and performance. 
- __A numbered points system__: During the competition, the panel of judges offers point values to grade each poet’s poem and performance. These points—usually out of ten—add up to determine whether or not the poet will advance to the next round or become the champion. 
- __Several rounds of competition__: Most poetry slams include at least three rounds of competition, in which the pool of poets becomes narrower until two poets remain, competing for the top spot. 
- __Audience participation__: Poetry slams are not supposed to be stiff, formal venues, and audience members often get involved in the performance, clapping, making noise, and offering energy to the poet during the performance. 
Many poets powerful writing and performances make them stand out—here are some notable slam poets and their most popular original works:

1. __Harry Baker__: Harry Baker is a British slam poet whose poems discuss his path from math major to full-time poet. Notable slam poems include “Impossible” and “A Love Poem for Lonely Prime Numbers.”
2. __Alex Dang__: Alex Dang is an Asian-American slam poet whose poems discuss identiy, gender, and relationships. His notable works include “What Kind of Asian Are You?” and “Super Gonzo.”
3. __Rudy Francisco__: Rudy Francisco is a slam poet from San Diego, California. His notable poems include “Complainers” and “Rifle.”
4. __Denice Frohman__: Denice Frohman is a queer slam poet with roots in Puerto Rican and Jewish culture. Her poems interrogate sexuality, gender, and race; notable works include “Accents” and “Puertopia.”
5. __Sarah Kay__: Sarah Kay is a slam poet with roots in both Japanese and Jewish culture. Notable slam poems include “Hands” and “Hiroshima.”
6. __Phil Kaye__: Phil Kaye is a Japanese-American slam poet from California. Notable slam poems include “Surplus” and “When Love Arrives” (performed with friend Sarah Kay). 
7. __Shane Koyczan__: Shane Koyczan is a Canadian slam poet who writes about social issues, especially of youth and high school students. Notable works include “To This Day” and “We Are More.”
8. __Ed Mabrey__: Ed Mabrey is a Black slam poet who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. His work deals with the injustices of the American social system. Notable poems include “Dear White People” and “Pursuit of Happyness.”
9. __Taylor Mali__: Talyor Mali is a slam poet from NYC. Notable poems include “What Teachers Make” and “I Could Be a Poet.”
10. __Anis Mojgani__: Anis Mojgani is a slam poet. Notable poems include “Shake the Dust” and “The Fisherman.”
Become a better writer with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Billy Collins, Joy Harjo, Neil Gaiman, Walter Mosley, Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, and more.
An energetic form of poetry, slam poems are spoken-word material performed in competition.

An energetic form of poetry, slam poems are spoken-word material performed in competition.

Slam Poetry: 10 Notable Slam Poets

Slam poetry is a type of spoken-word poetry that poets perform live at competitions called poetry slams. A slam poem is a performance art piece where speakers engage in powerful self-expression focusing on both content and sound—this can have a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-rhyme-scheme-learn-about-10-different-poetry-rhyme-schemes' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-rhyme-scheme-learn-about-10-different-poetry-rhyme-schemes","linkCopy":"rhyme scheme","category":null}'>rhyme scheme</a> or be unrhymed (<a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/poetry-101-what-is-the-difference-between-blank-verse-and-free-verse' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/poetry-101-what-is-the-difference-between-blank-verse-and-free-verse","linkCopy":"free verse","category":null}'>free verse</a>) and may contain elements of hip-hop, folk music, or jazz to enhance the rhythmic presentation. Slam poetry performances require participants to memorize their poems, have expressive body language (like gestures), enunciate, and make eye contact with the audience. In a poetry slam, slam poets perform their work for viewers and a panel of judges, competing in multiple rounds to reach the top position.

What Is Slam Poetry?

An energetic form of poetry, slam poems are spoken-word material performed in competition.

An energetic form of poetry, slam poems are spoken-word material performed in competition.


Express Yourself Through Poetry