At RECASAS, we believe that writing—even just a few words—can be a powerful act of self-care. That’s why our new pens say:
“IM NOTFALL: Gedichte schreiben” or
“In case of emergency: write poems”
This post is for anyone who’s struggling emotionally and isn’t sure what to do with all they’re feeling. Here’s a simple writing practice you can try, combining Peter Elbow’s freewriting method with the gentle structure of a Haiku or Elfchen poem.
Step-by-Step Freewriting Exercise
(based on Peter Elbow)
What is freewriting?
It’s writing continuously for a set amount of time without stopping to think, edit, or judge. The goal is to bypass your inner critic and get to what’s raw and real.
What might help you while Freewriting:
- You do not have to show your words to anyone.
- You can jump from topic to topic.
- Ignore grammar, spelling, and structure.
- Just don’t stop writing, even if you repeat a word.
Part 1: Warm-up (5 minutes)
Set a timer and write nonstop for five minutes. If your mind goes blank, write “I don’t know what to write” until something comes. Just keep your pen or fingers moving.
Part 2: Find a Spark
Read what you wrote. Underline a phrase or word that stands out to you. Write it at the top of a clean page and freewrite for another 5 minutes.
Part 3: Repeat
Again, underline a new word or phrase from this second piece. Use it to begin a third 5-minute freewrite.
Part 4: Connect & Shape
Now look through all three pieces. What feelings, images, or themes are emerging? Try to pull them together into a short poem, reflection, or even just a few powerful lines.
Try This: Create a Haiku or an Elfchen
From your freewriting, choose a few strong words or lines. Now, shape them into one of these simple poetic forms:
What is a Haiku?
A traditional Japanese poem with 3 lines and a 5-7-5 syllable structure.
Example:
Grief sits on my chest
like snow on tired branches—
still, I do not break.
What is an Elfchen?
A German poem of 11 words, spread over 5 lines in this pattern:
1 word / 2 words / 3 words / 4 words / 1 word
It’s often used in schools, but don’t let its simplicity fool you—Elfchen can carry deep emotion.
Example (in English):
Rain
on glass
softens my thinking
memories blur their outlines
pause.
Or in German:
Stille
am Fenster
ich höre nichts
außer meinem eigenen Atem
genug.
Reminder:
You don’t have to share your poem. But you might want to save it as a reminder that you made something—something honest—from a moment of struggle.
If you try this and something beautiful or meaningful emerges, feel free to share it with the RECASAS community (only if you feel ready). And remember: In case of emergency, write poems.
FOTO: shutter stock royalty free von vikitowin aus Kroatien
