I’m on the Wordle bandwagon, are you?
The online puzzle game that has suddenly grabbed hold of millions has been a welcome distraction from other news and needs. Since I’ve started playing I’ve managed to solve every one within the allowed six guesses (I’m usually a solid 4.)
You may be relieved to know that I’ve not been sharing my scores on social media, but I do love seeing the sharing by others. The yellow, green, and gray squares that indicate the guesser’s progress are like graphic art that tells a story.
I also haven’t yet given in to the temptation to play the archives, which means the tendency to play over and over again is held at bay. It’s one Wordle a day for me.
My Wordle strategy doesn’t include a regular starting word or list of words. I like choosing a random word to begin, and then I spend a lot of time in my head trying out words with the clues my squares give me. Some days my guesses tell a story all their own.
I decided to try writing a poem from one of my Wordle results.
This one is from last week, so there are no spoilers for today’s puzzle. Here is what I was left with after I solved the puzzle.
And here is the poem I wrote using those words in order.
I had a dream that my mother and I were in a library of her memories. On the shelves were displayed the great store of people and events from long ago—the ones that will leave last. What if you could renew memories like a library book you weren't quite finished with yet? Like the recipe for the herby garlic sauce your neighbor told you on the stairs. Or the jerky dance moves to that Tik Tok video your daughter tried to teach you. You could slide them over the counter and the perky librarian would stamp their due date two years later, and you'd write down the sauce recipe for her the next time you come in.
a writing prompt
If you are playing Wordle, try using the words from your guesses in a poem, paragraph, or story.
Or choose a page from something you read today and circle six random words in it. Then use those words as you write.
two workshop opportunities
Want to write more with me, and a small group of people?
I’m leading an online Lenten writing workshop—six weeks of writing, March 9-April 13th. We’ll use a variety of prompts to explore the season. Join me on Wednesdays during Lent.
I’m also leading an online workshop for Faith & Grief Ministries for six weeks during March and April. Join me on Tuesday evenings for Writing for Remembrance & Healing.
I’d love to write with you. Find out more here.
