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10 Words to Describe the Beauty of Nature

By A.W. Naves

Does your story have a setting in which characters are exploring their natural surroundings ? Do you need some words to describe the beauty of nature? Scroll down to learn more!

1. Majestic

Grand, impressive ; displaying impressive beauty.

“The majestic mountains rose in the distance, their peaks touching the clouds.”

“The view of the valley below was nothing short of majestic from the peak on which we stood.”

How it Adds Description

The word “majestic” adds a sense of grandeur and incredible beauty to the natural scenery described in the story. It adds depth to the scene as characters are drawn deeper into the natural world and encounter new and unexpected challenges along the way. It can help to create a sense of emotional resonance in the reader, drawing them into the story.

Calm, peaceful ; tranquil and untroubled.

“The lake was serene in appearance, reflecting the colorful leaves of the surrounding trees.”

“The serene meadow was alive with the sound of chirping birds and buzzing insects.”

The word “serene” adds a sense of peacefulness and calmness, leading the reader to imagine a scene that is both visually stunning and emotionally tranquil. It can create contrast with the action in the story. For example, if there is a violent event occurring, it can emphasize the disruption to the peaceful surroundings and heighten the drama of the scene.

Bright, colorful ; pulsing with life.

“The vibrant flowers in the field danced in the wind, their petals a rainbow of colors.”

“The sunset painted the sky with the vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple.”

The word “vibrant” conveys a sense of energy, highlighting the bright and colorful aspects of the natural world. It can communicate urgency or excitement, as the vibrant beauty of nature can inspire characters to take action or make important decisions. It might also contrast elements such as darkness or gloom, emphasizing the positive qualities of nature instead.

4. Pristine

Pure, untouched ; in an undisturbed state.

“The pristine snow covered the forest floor, leaving a blanket of white untouched by human hands.”

“The beach stretched out before them, its pristine crystal-clear water shimmering in the sunlight.”

The word “pristine” indicates that the environment being described is in its original state, free from human intervention or contamination. It can set the scene for the protection of this undisturbed environment or the consequences of its destruction. It may also serve as a contrast to the introduction of human influence, highlighting the fragility of the natural world.

5. Enchanting

Charming, delightful ; incredibly pleasing or captivating.

“The garden was an enchanting maze of colorful flowers and winding paths.”

“The enchanting starry sky above them twinkled with countless points of light.”

The word “enchanting” implies that the beauty of nature is captivating and holds a mysterious quality that draws the attention of the reader. It can move the plot forward by suggesting that there may be more to the natural setting than meets the eye. This can create a sense of anticipation, as the reader wonders what secrets or surprises may be waiting for them ahead.

Picturesque, perfect ; extremely peaceful.

“The idyllic countryside was a patchwork of green fields and grazing livestock.”

“The beach was an idyllic paradise of white sand and turquoise waters.”

The word “idyllic” can help set the tone and mood of a scene, making the reader feel more immersed in the story. A character experiencing an idyllic moment in nature may later have to confront challenges that disrupt that peace and tranquility, providing a contrasting backdrop against which the story’s conflict can unfold.

Awe-inspiring, majestic ; possessing overwhelming beauty.

“The beauty of the sublime waterfall took their breath away, its roaring waters filling their ears with a deafening sound.”

“The sublime expanse of the desert stretched out before them, its endless sands reaching to the horizon.”

The word “sublime” is often used to describe the beauty of nature in a way that goes beyond mere attractiveness or prettiness. It connotes a sense of awe and wonder at the grandeur and majesty of natural phenomena, such as towering mountains or cascading waterfalls. Using this word to describe the beauty of nature in a story can help to create a more vivid and immersive sensory experience for the reader.

8. Ethereal

Delicate, light ; not of this world.

“The ethereal mist hung low over the hills, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.”

“The beauty of the aurora borealis was ethereal as it danced across the night sky, painting it in vibrant hues.”

The word “ethereal” describes something delicate, light, and seemingly not of this world. It can be used to set a dreamy and mystical tone, which can enhance the reader’s emotional experience of the story. It can also suggest a sense of magic or wonder that might be important to the plot, such as when describing a fantastical setting or a supernatural event.

Untamed, rugged ; lacking domestication or cultivation.

“The wild river rushed over rocks and boulders, its frothy waters churning with energy.”

“The landscape was a wild canvas of rocky outcroppings and dense forests, untouched by human hands.”

The word “wild” suggests a sense of rawness and unpredictability. When used to describe a landscape or ecosystem, it implies that the beauty is not simply the result of human intervention or control, but rather is a product of the natural world’s own processes and forces. It may also suggest that there are dangers or challenges inherent in this environment that must be overcome.

Green, fertile ; growing in abundance.

“The lush forest was a tapestry of green leaves and mossy rocks, teeming with wildlife.”

“The lush garden was a riot of colorful blooms and fragrant herbs, inviting visitors to linger and explore.”

The word “lush” conveys a sense of abundance and fertility, suggesting that the natural landscape is vibrant and thriving. This can help to create a more immersive and engaging setting for the reader, drawing them further into the world of the story and providing a setting for the action to take place in a scene.

Smell of Nature: Descriptions that Appeal to the Senses (2024)

Are you looking for descriptions for the smell of nature? You’ve come to the right place! From mildewed to petrichor, we have all the words you need to describe the beautiful natural world that surrounds us!

Jump to Section

Smell as a Potent Descriptor in Writing

Examples of natural smell descriptions in writing, fresh and light, deep and pleasant, richly unpleasant.

Related posts: Vivid Description in Creative Writing Examples

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links.

The sense of smell  is known as the strongest sense for memory inducer. When your writing contains descriptions of various smells, you have the potential to trigger your reader’s most nostalgic memories; hence, your writing will stay with them longer !

Inject your writing with the smell of nature whenever appropriate, be it when your character is out exploring nature, or to draw comparison / parallel between their current situation and the natural world around them.

Let’s look at two examples to illustrate this point.

1. This first example lets us experience the world as the character in the story experiences it. The rich description transports us to Louisiana in September, how heady and overwhelming it is, just as the author describes it.

Louisiana in September was like an obscene phone call from nature. The air–moist, sultry, secretive, and far from fresh–felt as if it were being exhaled into one’s face. Sometimes it even sounded like heavy breathing. Honeysuckle, swamp flowers, magnolia, and the mystery smell of the river scented the atmosphere, amplifying the intrusion of organic sleaze. It was aphrodisiac and repressive, soft and violent at the same time. – Tim Robbins, Jitterbug Perfume (1990)

2. This second example draws a parallel between what the character is feeling and the world around them. Autumn smelled acrid to the character in this story, and it mimicked the fear he felt inside.

The acrid scents of autumn, reminiscent of slinking beasts, make me fear. – D.H. Lawrence, The Complete Poems (1994)

Three Broad Categories of Natural Smell

Do you know that human’s olfactory sense can detect 1 trillion odors ? It’s no surprise that we frequently struggle to describe the smell of nature, with its plethora of colorful scents. But, a good writer must try, right? 

Let’s classify natural smells into three categories . Here they are, with some alternative words to describe them.

When I think of nature, my mind automatically goes to an open air, green area with lots of sunshine, free of manmade buildings. Meadows, forests and mountains are some examples. The smells associated with such places are fresh and light.

Another way to say this would be: 

– Airy : a flighty kind of smell that just wants to lift you up to new heights. – Alpine : reminiscence of high mountains. – Clean : that odorless smell that fills up the lung when you’re surrounded by nature. – Crisp : a sense of cleanness that you could almost bite into, like biting into a particularly refreshing chunk of apple. – Fresh : the kind of invigorating smell that overtakes you as if you’re standing beside a waterfall. – Fruity: the sweet, refreshingly light smell of fruits. – Minty : a smell that almost pierces your nose and fills you up with cool air. – Ozonic : fresh and clean air, especially the one breathed at the seaside. (Ozone in informal British refers to fresh air.) – Piney : a smell that calls back to the smell of pine trees in the forest, it’s peppery with a dash of minty and at the same time is said to be a good antidepressant. – Sun-baked: a clean kind of smell that is dry and a bit musky.

The smell of rain as it starts to hit dry earth, or the sea breeze at the hull of a ship. They stay with you for a long time and yet do not repulse you. Oceans and jungles are places that tend to carry these deep, pleasant smells.

Here are some words that can describe that deep yet pleasant scents of nature:

– Ambrosial : succulently fragrant or sweet. – Earthy : the smell of freshly dug soil. – Damp moss : the forest aroma after being steeped in the rain all day long. – Floral : richly sweet, flowery scents. – Myrrhic : a pleasant myrrh fragrance. (Myrrh is a sap-like substance or resin from the bark of certain trees. Furthermore, myrrh itself is described as warm, woody and aromatic with a hint of pungency.) – Musky : an animalistic scent that is earthy and woodsy, it’s a scent that’s close to human skin but more intense and heady. – Oceanic : the salty, breezy scent of the sea. – Petrichor : the light smell of rainwater as it makes contact with dry earth. – Peppery : a deep, aromatic smell that is a little pungent and musty, reminiscence of pepper. – Resiny : resin-like smell – Smokey : a deep woodsy scent with a hint of burnt matter. – Spicy : a strong, aromatic sweet scent that is reminiscent of hot spices. – Tang : a refreshingly sharp aroma. – Tropical : a sweet and strong scent that’s coming from a combination of tropical herbs, spices and fruits. – Woodsy : the collective smell coming from the various growth you might find in a forest. – Zesty : a smell akin to spicy.

BEFORE WE CONTINUE…

It could be time to make an investment in a quality dictionary if you need extra assistance to reference that particular term that keeps eluding you. Check out a few options below:

1. This Thesaurus broadens your ability to describe the world around you through seeing, hearing, touching, tasting, and smelling.

PLEASE CLICK ON THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

2. The book below is a fascinating, weird, and awe-inspiring investigation of scent . Read what Jack Hitt (author of Bunch of Amateurs) said about this book: “The nose on your face is the Buckingham Palace Guard of your body, the maitre d’ of all taste, as well as the seducer of your imagination, and memory—and Jude Stewart has charmed them all into a wicked, poetic and illuminating tour of their mysterious domains.”

NOW, to continue down our list…

Lastly, nature can smell unpleasant, too. Oceans, swamps, natural springs, and many other natural places sometimes carry pungent aroma be it from decomposing organic matters or other natural, earthy elements. Here are some words to describe them:

– Acrid : sharp and harsh smell, – Cadaverine : a foul-smelling diamine produced by protein hydrolysis during putrefaction of dead organic matters. – Effluvium : a foul-smelling gas or vapor. – Fetid : foul-smelling or stinking. – Fishy : a smell reminiscent of fish. – Fusty : stale-smelling or stuffy. – Gamey : the strong smell of game meat. – Hircine : an odor reminiscent of goat. – Marshy : distinctive and pungent “rotten egg” smell. – Mephitis : a strong smell, especially emitted from the earth. – Mildewed : that scent when an organic matter is steeped in wetness for too long that it has gone stale and started decomposing. – Musty : the deep scent of decaying matters and rotting woods. – Oceanic : a salty, breezy seaside smell with hints of fishy and rotten smell. – Stale: the smell of old, forgotten, and stagnant matter. – Stenchy: having a stench, foul odor. – Putrid : the stench emitted by decomposing organic matter. – Rancid: rank in smell. – Reek: strong, unpleasant smell. – Sulphury : sharp, pungent smell.

As a closing, when I feel stumped in describing natural smells, what I love to do is to browse through catalogs of perfume descriptions and let the words inspire me .

I hope the list of smell descriptions of nature listed above is useful for you. For a similar post, head to Vivid Description in Creative Writing Examples

Or if you’re looking for writing prompts, check out Surreal Writing Prompts , Unique Zombie Ideas , or browse our Story Ideas & Writing Prompts category for more ideas.

Until next time!

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The Top 10 Descriptive Paragraphs About Mountains

Written by Dan

Last updated February 15, 2024

As a teacher, when you’re looking for examples of descriptive paragraphs for your class to study and explore, there’s no better subject than the majesty of mountains. Mountains offer a different type of beauty—one that can be both awe-inspiring and peaceful simultaneously.

To help give your students an idea of what mountain descriptions look like, we’ve created a list with some of the top 10 most evocative passages about mountains—all written by some beloved authors over the years!

In this post, we’ll examine each with insightful quotes from each passage so that teachers can use material in their classroom activity instructions to further illustrate how expansive and captivating a description about mountains can truly be.

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About King Charles  here.

Table of Contents

1. The Majestic Mountains

The mountains, like the ancient sentinels of a forgotten realm, stand tall and proud, their peaks scraping the soft belly of the cerulean sky. They rise like majestic titans, their silhouettes etched defiantly against the backdrop of the heavens.

These mountains are an epitome of grandeur and resilience, a living testament to the earth’s might and its relentless endurance. Their formidable stature is a constant reminder of the planet’s ageless strength and timeless persistence.

Their rugged surfaces, etched with the countless stories of time, are a complex tapestry of shadows and light. These surfaces, worn by the ceaseless march of seasons, bear the imprints of centuries, their crinkles and folds narrating tales of eras gone by.

This intricate mosaic of crevices and ridges, illuminated and concealed by the shifting sun, is a testament to the relentless passage of time and the enduring spirit of nature.

The sun, a celestial artist, paints the mountains with a precision that is nothing short of poetic. As it embarks on its daily journey across the expansive horizon, it bathes the mountains in a kaleidoscope of colors, from the soft pastels of dawn to the fiery hues of dusk.

The play of light and shadow over the mountains’ rugged terrain creates a dynamic landscape that changes with every passing hour, offering an ever-evolving spectacle of natural beauty.

The craggy faces of these mountainous giants, speckled with the vibrant greens of hardy vegetation and the pristine white of winter snow, hold a raw, natural beauty that is both awe-inspiring and humbling.

The contrast between the harsh, unyielding rock and the delicate, fleeting snowflakes or the resilient, tenacious greenery serves as a stark reminder of nature’s paradoxical character — its capacity for both ruthlessness and gentleness.

This juxtaposition, this symphony of extremes, contributes to the mountains’ mesmerizing allure, making them a sight that is as humbling as it is breathtaking.

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About The Queen  here.

2. A Symphony of Silence

Listen closely! The mountains speak in a symphony of silence, a language so profound that it transcends words. This silence is punctuated only by the crisp crunch of snow underfoot or the distant echo of a lone bird’s call.

It is a sound that reverberates deep within the soul, a profound hush that drowns out the clamor of the world below, offering a sanctuary where one can hear the whisper of their own thoughts. This silence is not empty but full of a stillness that sings a song of tranquility and peace.

The mountains, silent sentinels of a bygone era, are soothing balms for the soul. They offer refuge from the bustle and anxiety of daily life, allowing one to connect with a peacefulness that is eons old.

For those in need of solace, these quiet giants are beacons of hope, providing a place where one can rest and replenish their reserves of energy and strength.

The mountains beckon us to their untamed peak, inviting us to explore and discover the lessons that lay hidden within their depths. Beyond the chilly winds and steep slopes are secrets that remain untouched and unspoken, waiting for those who will brave its heights.

Those courageous enough to venture into the mountains will be rewarded with a serenity so profound it seems almost sacred, an experience they are unlikely to forget.

The mountains are powerful and mysterious, a place of awe and reverence. They are a reminder that in the vastness of our world lies something greater than ourselves, an ancient wisdom that can only be found in the silent depths of their peaks.

The majestic beauty of these silent giants stands as a testament to our fragile planet and its enduring spirit—a spirit that will continue to speak in its own language, a language of silence.

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About Macbeth  here.

3. The Beauty of Solitude

In the heart of the mountains, solitude is not a state of loneliness, but a tranquil companionship with nature. Here, one can commune with the wind that rustles through the pines, the snow that blankets the slopes, and the rocks that have stood the test of time.

Each element is a friend, offering comfort in its constant, unchanging presence. This solitude nurtures the spirit, providing a space for reflection and introspection, a chance to connect with oneself amidst the majesty of the natural world.

The mountains are a place of calm and repose, where one can be surrounded by beauty while still remaining in control. Here, the elements are at peace, and one is free to explore the depths of their own inner world.

The harshness of the terrain encourages self-reliance and teaches resilience, while its serenity facilitates contemplation and growth. The mountains offer a unique opportunity to experience the joy of being alone, far away from the clamor and chaos of everyday life.

The beauty of the mountains is that they offer something for everyone. For some, it’s an escape from the hustle and bustle; for others, an adventure in a wild and untamed world.

But no matter what the purpose, in the mountains one is never truly alone. The company of nature’s elements provides an unspoken companionship—a presence that remains steady and true no matter how far one ventures into the unknown.

The mountains are a place of solace, with their majestic beauty and ancient secrets luring us to explore its depths. Here, amidst the stillness and peace of its peaks, we can find refuge from the chaos of life. The mountains are a reminder that no matter how isolated we may feel, there is always something greater than ourselves that surrounds and sustains us.

They offer a glimpse into an ancient wisdom beyond our understanding, serving as both an inspiration and a protector. In these silent giants lies the promise of solace and serenity, a reminder that beauty and power are intertwined in the timeless embrace of nature.

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About The Wind  here.

4. The Dance of Light and Shadow

At dawn, the mountains are cloaked in ethereal hues of pink and gold, their jagged silhouettes sharp against the awakening sky. As the day progresses, they transform into an ever-changing tableau of light and shadow, each hour revealing a new facet of their beauty.

The sun, in its celestial dance, plays with the mountains, casting shadows that creep and retreat, highlighting ridges and illuminating valleys. At dusk, they are bathed in the fiery glow of the setting sun, their peaks aflame with a riot of colors, as if bidding a spectacular farewell to the day.

The mountains are a living, breathing canvas, their faces ever-changing. The subtle hues of morning mist, the play of light and shadow at noon and twilight’s golden curtain; each is a unique symphony that speaks to the soul.

They evoke emotions ranging from awe and wonder to reverence and serenity, inspiring feelings that can only be found in the embrace of nature.

The mountains are more than just a beautiful sight, they are portals to an alternate reality filled with possibility and potential. They remind us that there is beauty even in moments of darkness, if we take the time to look for it.

By exploring their depths, we can discover our own inner strength and courage—strengths that can be found only in the depths of their majestic passes.

The beauty of the mountains is timeless, and as the sun sets each day they remind us that the world is constantly changing, even if it appears otherwise. They invite us to step into a realm where dreams are made and infinite potential awaits.

No matter how daunting it may seem, these silent sentinels are a reminder that the journey is worth taking—for in the depths of their peaks lies an enchantment beyond our wildest imaginings.

5. The Mountains’ Might

The mountains, with their towering peaks and deep, mysterious valleys, are a testament to the earth’s raw power. They are sculpted by the relentless forces of wind and water, carved by the slow crawl of glaciers and the ceaseless march of time.

Their strength is palpable, radiating a quiet assurance that they will endure long after we have returned to the dust. Their might serves as a reminder of our own insignificance in the face of nature’s grandeur, a humbling experience that puts our fleeting existence into perspective.

The mountains are a source of strength and inspiration, pushing us to the limits of our physical and mental abilities. They challenge us in ways that other environments cannot, teaching resilience and perseverance in the face of hardship.

The sheer magnitude of their slopes teach us humility, while their rugged beauty elicits feelings of awe and wonderment. In the presence of these silent sentinels, we can’t help but feel small.

The mountains are a source of solace and strength—a reminder that beauty and power are intertwined in the timeless embrace of nature. Here, amidst the stillness and peace of its peaks, we can find refuge from the chaos of life. The mountains beckon us to explore beyond our comfort zone, reminding us that there is always something greater than ourselves that we can strive for.

They offer a glimpse into an ancient wisdom beyond our understanding, a reminder that the journey is worth taking—for in the depths of their peaks lies an enchantment beyond our wildest imaginings.

6. The Call of the Wild

In the heart of the mountains, the wild calls with a primal lure, awakening a deep-seated yearning for exploration and adventure. Here, amidst the rugged terrain, the untamed beauty, one can feel truly alive, their senses sharpened by the crisp mountain air and the stunning vistas that unfold at every turn.

The mountains call to the adventurer within us, beckoning us to lose ourselves in their wilderness, to breathe in their purity, to become one with their untamed spirit.

The mountains are a playground for the soul, an escape from the mundane and everyday. They invite us to explore their secrets, to discover forgotten trails hidden in their folds, to marvel at their natural wonders.

Here we can find true freedom, where danger is ever-present and adventure abounds. The wild beckons to us—to take risks, face our fears, and test the limits of ourselves.

The mountains are a reminder that life should be lived to its fullest. They invite us to break free from the chains of everyday life and take a leap into the unknown. Here we can find solace in nature’s embrace, discover hidden treasures, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and adventure.

The mountains are a call to the wild, an invitation to explore their depths and discover our true potential. They offer us a glimpse into an ancient wisdom beyond our understanding, reminding us that beauty and power are intertwined in the timeless embrace of nature. Adventure awaits—all we have to do is heed its call. Take the plunge, embrace the risk, and find strength in the wild.

7. A Sanctuary of Serenity

The mountains offer a sanctuary of serenity, a haven from the hustle and bustle of life. Their timeless beauty and tranquil silence provide a balm for the weary soul, healing the wounds inflicted by the frenetic pace of modern existence.

Here, one can find peace, solitude, and a profound connection with nature. The mountains teach us to slow down, to appreciate the simple beauty of a sunrise or the quiet majesty of a snow-capped peak, to find joy in the journey rather than the destination.

The mountains have a magnetic quality, an otherworldly aura that draws us in. They offer a respite from the noise and chaos of life—a place to reflect, rejuvenate, and find clarity. In their embrace we can reconnect with our true selves, discover our innermost passions and dreams, and begin anew.

The mountains are a reminder of the power of nature and its ability to heal. They are a source of strength, courage, and peace—a sanctuary for the weary traveler. Each peak is an invitation to explore, to climb higher than ever before and bask in the awe-inspiring beauty that lies beyond.

The mountains provide a refuge from our daily lives, offering us solace in their stillness and serenity. Let us take a deep breath and be filled with the peace that only nature can provide.

8. The Seasons’ Canvas

The mountains are the canvas upon which the seasons paint their masterpieces. Winter swathes them in a blanket of pristine snow, transforming their rough terrain into a shimmering wonderland of white.

Spring adorns them with a burst of color as flowers bloom and trees bud, breathing life into their slopes. Summer bathes them in warmth and light, revealing their full splendor in the long, golden days. Autumn, the grand artist, sets them ablaze with fiery hues of red and orange, making a spectacle of their descent into winter.

The canvas of the mountains is ever-changing, a stark reminder that nothing in life is constant. The rocky terrain is both relentless and resilient, weathering centuries of storms, floods, snowstorms, and droughts. It stands as a silent witness to the passing of time—to the ebbs and flows of nature’s cycle—reminding us of our own mortality.

The mountains are a reminder that life is fleeting, but also ever-renewing. They offer us a glimpse into the renewal of life through the changing seasons, reminding us to take pleasure in the little moments and savor each experience with all our senses. Let us be still and marvel at the beauty of nature’s canvas, for here lies a never-ending source of inspiration.

The mountains are more than just a backdrop to life’s ups and downs—they are our teachers, guides, and companions. In their embrace we can find strength and solace in times of struggle, and joy and peace in times of ease.

Let us take the time to listen to their silent voices, and find the courage to embrace their call. The mountains await—all we have to do is heed its call. Take the plunge, embrace the risk, and explore the wilds of life’s eternal canvas.

9. The Mountains’ Majesty

There is an undeniable majesty to the mountains. They rise from the earth like colossal sculptures, their contours shaped by the hand of nature. Their peaks, wreathed in clouds, seem to touch the heavens, reaching for the stars in their silent, stoic way.

Their valleys, cloaked in mist, hold a mystical allure, hiding secrets in their depths. In their towering grandeur, the mountains command respect and awe, inspiring poets and artists, dreamers and adventurers alike.

The mountains challenge us, calling us to re-examine our place in the natural world. They remind us of our insignificance and mortality, but also of the strength and resilience that lies within all of us.

Here we can find courage to take risks, explore new possibilities, and live life to its fullest. The mountains beckon—to stand in their glory, to marvel at their timeless beauty, and to be moved by the awesomeness of nature.

The mountains offer us a chance to reconnect with the wildness within ourselves—a part of our true selves that has been forgotten in today’s modern world. To climb a mountain is to break free from the mundane routine of life, to escape from the confines of comfort and be filled with a sense of freedom.

Let us take a moment to marvel at the majesty of the mountains, for here lies an inexhaustible source of inspiration and strength.

The mountains have been witnesses to our struggles and triumphs throughout history—they are part of our collective memory, a reminder that we can overcome any obstacle and find joy in the journey.

Let us embrace their call and take a plunge into the unknown, for here lies a chance to explore uncharted terrain and discover our true potential. The mountains await—all we have to do is heed its call. Take the plunge, embrace the risk, and find strength in the wilds of life’s ever-changing landscape.

10. The Mountains’ Song

The mountains sing a song as old as time itself. It is a melody woven from the rustle of leaves, the babble of brooks, the whistle of the wind, and the call of the wild. It is a symphony that resonates in the heart, a tune that speaks of peace, strength, beauty, and the eternal rhythm of nature.

This song, once heard, stays with you, a haunting melody that calls you back to the mountains, to their majesty, their solitude, and their wild, untamed beauty.

The mountains’ song is a reminder to take pleasure in the little moments and savor each experience with all our senses. Let us pause to listen and be filled with the serenity that only nature can provide.

The mountains may be silent, but their song speaks of life and its mysteries—of adventure, courage, hope, and renewal. In its embrace we can find the strength to take risks, explore new possibilities, and live life to its fullest.

The mountains are alive with their song—a never-ending source of inspiration and courage. Let us take a moment to listen, and find the resolve to heed their call.

Take the plunge, embrace the risk, and explore the wilds of life’s eternal song. The mountains await—all we have to do is listen. So take a deep breath and be filled with the peace that only nature can provide, for here lies an adventure unlike any other.

In conclusion, these top 10 descriptive paragraphs about mountains serve as perfect examples of the power of evocative language. Each passage offers a unique perspective on the majesty and beauty of mountains, highlighting their grandeur, tranquility, and the awe they inspire.

The various descriptions illustrate how the same subject can be depicted in numerous ways, depending on the author’s choice of words and imagery.

These passages serve not only as a tool for teaching descriptive writing but also as an invitation for students to explore their own experiences and emotions, encouraging them to convey their thoughts and feelings with similar depth and vividness. By studying these examples, students can learn to appreciate the richness of descriptive language and the endless possibilities it offers for expressing their perceptions and experiences.

Furthermore, these passages remind us that nature, particularly the magnificence of mountains, provides an abundant source of inspiration for writers. By learning to observe and describe the natural world around them, students can cultivate their observational skills, expand their vocabulary, and develop their ability to create compelling, immersive descriptions.

In essence, these masterfully crafted passages about mountains are more than just examples of descriptive writing; they are a testament to the beauty of language and its power to bring the world to life in the reader’s mind.

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About The Author

I'm Dan Higgins, one of the faces behind The Teaching Couple. With 15 years in the education sector and a decade as a teacher, I've witnessed the highs and lows of school life. Over the years, my passion for supporting fellow teachers and making school more bearable has grown. The Teaching Couple is my platform to share strategies, tips, and insights from my journey. Together, we can shape a better school experience for all.

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Nature Writing Examples

by Lisa Hiton

From the essays of Henry David Thoreau, to the features in National Geographic , nature writing has bridged the gap between scientific articles about environmental issues and personal, poetic reflections on the natural world. This genre has grown since Walden to include nature poetry, ecopoetics, nature reporting, activism, fiction, and beyond. We now even have television shows and films that depict nature as the central figure. No matter the genre, nature writers have a shared awe and curiosity about the world around us—its trees, creatures, elements, storms, and responses to our human impact on it over time.

Whether you want to report on the weather, write poems from the point of view of flowers, or track your journey down a river in your hometown, your passion for nature can manifest in many different written forms. As the world turns and we transition between seasons, we can reflect on our home, planet Earth, with great dedication to description, awe, science, and image.

Journal Examples: Keeping Track of Your Tracks

One of the many lost arts of our modern time is that of journaling. While keeping a journal is a beneficial practice for all, it is especially crucial to nature writers. John A. Murray , author of Writing About Nature: A Creative Guide , begins his study of the nature writing practice with the importance of journaling:

Nature writers may rely on journals more consistently than novelists and poets because of the necessity of describing long-term processes of nature, such as seasonal or environmental changes, in great detail, and of carefully recording outdoor excursions for articles and essays[…] The important thing, it seems to me, is not whether you keep journals, but, rather, whether you have regular mechanisms—extended letters, telephone calls to friends, visits with confidants, daily meditation, free-writing exercises—that enable you to comprehensively process events as they occur. But let us focus in this section on journals, which provide one of the most common means of chronicling and interpreting personal history. The words journal and journey share an identical root and common history. Both came into the English language as a result of the Norman Victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. For the next three hundred years, French was the chief language of government, religion, and learning in England. The French word journie, which meant a day’s work or a day’s travel, was one of the many words that became incorporated into English at the time[…]The journal offers the writer a moment of rest in that journey, a sort of roadside inn along the highway. Here intellect and imagination are alone with the blank page and composition can proceed with an honesty and informality often precluded in more public forms of expression. As a result, several important benefits can accrue: First, by writing with unscrutinized candor and directness on a particular subject, a person can often find ways to write more effectively on the same theme elsewhere. Second, the journal, as a sort of unflinching mirror, can remind the author of the importance of eliminating self-deception and half-truths in thought and writing. Third, the journal can serve as a brainstorming mechanism to explore new topics, modes of thought, or types of writing that otherwise would remain undiscovered or unexamined. Fourth, the journal can provide a means for effecting a catharsis on subjects too personal for publication even among friends and family. (Murray, 1-2)

A dedicated practice of documenting your day, observing what is around you, and creating your own field guide of the world as you encounter it will help strengthen your ability to translate it all to others and help us as a culture learn how to interpret what is happening around us.

Writing About Nature: A Creative Guide by John A. Murray : Murray’s book on nature writing offers hopeful writers a look at how nature writers keeps journals, write essays, incorporate figurative language, use description, revise, research, and more.

Botanical Shakespeare: An Illustrated Compendium of All the Flowers, Fruits, Herbs, Trees, Seeds, and Grasses Cited by the World’s Greatest Playwright by Gerit Quealy and Sumie Hasegawa Collins: Helen Mirren’s foreword to the book describes it as “the marriage of Shakespeare’s words about plants and the plants themselves.” This project combines the language of Shakespeare with the details of the botanicals found throughout his works—Quealy and Hasegawa bring us a literary garden ripe with flora and fauna puns and intellectual snark.

• What new vision of Shakespeare is provided by approaching his works through the lens of nature writing and botanicals?
• Latin and Greek terms and roots continue to be very important in the world of botanicals. What do you learn from that etymology throughout the book? How does it impact symbolism in Shakespeare’s works?
• Annotate the book using different colored highlighters. Seek out description in one color, interpretation in another, and you might even look for literary echoes using a third. How do these threads braid together?

The Living Mountain: A Celebration of the Cairngorm Mountains of Scotland by Nan Shepherd : The Living Mountain is Shepherd’s account of exploring the Cairngorm Mountains of Scotland. Part of Britain’s Arctic, Shepherd encounters ravenous storms, clear views of the aurora borealis, and deep snows during the summer. She spent hundreds of days exploring the mountains by foot.

• These pages were written during the last years of WWII and its aftermath. How does that backdrop inform Shepherd’s interpretation of the landscape?
• The book is separated into twelve chapters, each dedicated to a specific part of life in the Cairngorms. How do these divisions guide the writing? Is she able to keep these elements separate from each other? In writing? In experiencing the land?
• Many parts of the landscape Shepherd observes would be expected in nature writing—mountains, weather, elements, animals, etc. How does Shepherd use language and tone to write about these things without using stock phrasing or clichéd interpretations?

Birds Art Life: A Year of Observation by Kyo Maclear : Even memoir can be delivered through nature writing as we see in Kyo Maclear’s poetic book, Birds Art Life . The book is an account of a year in her life after her father has passed away. And just as Murray and Thoreau would advise, journaling those days and the symbols in them led to a whole book—one that delicately and profoundly weaves together the nature of life—of living after death—and how art can collide with that nature to get us through the hours.

• How does time pass throughout the book? What techniques does Maclear employ to move the reader in and out of time?
• How does grief lead Maclear into art? Philosophy? Nature? Objects?
• The book is divided into the months of the year. Why does Maclear divide the book this way?
• What do you make of the subtitles?

Is time natural? Describe the relationship between humans and time in nature.

So dear writers, take to these pages and take to the trails in nature around you. Journal your way through your days. Use all of your senses to take a journey in nature. Then, journal to make a memory of your time in the world. And give it all away to the rest of us, in words.

Lisa Hiton is an editorial associate at Write the World . She writes two series on our blog: The Write Place where she comments on life as a writer, and Reading like a Writer where she recommends books about writing in different genres. She’s also the interviews editor of Cosmonauts Avenue and the poetry editor of the Adroit Journal .

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Earthly Whispers: Describing Grass in Creative Writing

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Earthly Whispers: Describing the Delicate Blades of Grass in Creative Writing

The textures:, the symphony of grass: capturing the gentle rustling and whistling sounds in words, a dance in the wind: depicting the graceful movement and swaying of grass, the aroma of nature: describing the earthy, fresh fragrance of verdant grass, enhancing your writing: tips and techniques for evocative grass descriptions, exploring techniques for evocative grass descriptions, bringing the outdoors to life: invigorating your prose with lively grass imagery, frequently asked questions, concluding remarks.

When it comes to creative writing, the world of nature serves as a boundless source of inspiration. Among the gentlest wonders that Earth has to offer are the delicate blades of grass that carpet our landscapes, silently adding a touch of tranquility to our lives. Describing the mesmerizing allure of these tiny plants can wonderfully enhance your writing, connecting readers to the beauty that lies beneath their feet. Allow your words to depict the lushness of grass, its hidden secrets waiting to be unveiled.

Start by imagining a sea of emerald green perfectly swaying in the wind, whispering sweet stories only decipherable by the curious observer. Picture the slender blades, sprouting effortlessly, inching their way upward towards the sun, each one a testament to resilience and tenacity. To capture its essence, consider evoking emotions that arise from its presence; it symbolizes renewal, refreshment, and the cycle of life. Employ vivid imagery to paint a vivid mental picture in the minds of your readers, allowing them to feel the gentle touch as they walk barefoot through a meadow, blades tickling the soles of their feet.

Unveiling the Subtle Beauty: Exploring the Intricate Shades and Textures of Grass

Grass, a seemingly ordinary part of our surroundings, often goes unnoticed and underappreciated. However, upon closer examination, one can unveil the hidden beauty that lies within this fascinating plant kingdom. With its diverse shades and textures, grass has so much more to offer than meets the eye.

Step into the enchanting world of grass and prepare to be mesmerized by its intricate shades. From vibrant emerald greens to subtle hints of olive, grass showcases a stunning palette of colors that evolve throughout the seasons. Whether it’s the fresh spring grass glistening with dewdrops or the rich, deep green of summer lawns, each hue has a unique story to tell as nature gracefully unfolds. This diverse array of colors brings harmony and life to our surroundings, creating a sense of tranquility and serenity.

Beyond its breathtaking shades, grass offers a world of intricate textures that effortlessly captivate our senses. Explore the velvety softness of a well-manicured lawn, where each blade of grass stands tall and equally pristine. Run your fingers over the fine, lush strands, delighting in their gentle caress against your skin.

But grass doesn’t limit itself to a single texture. Discover the playful variety as you encounter patches of rough and coarse grasses, adding a dynamic contrast to the landscape. Picture yourself walking barefoot on a dew-kissed meadow, feeling the ticklish sensation of sprawling, long blades gently brushing against your toes. The textures of grass serve as nature’s intricate tapestry, inviting us to connect with the Earth on a deeper level.

Just imagine strolling through a vast, green meadow, a gentle breeze brushing against your skin, and the orchestra of sounds that unveils as you step onto the lush carpet of grass. The symphony of this natural wonder is often overshadowed by the grandeur of other natural elements, but if one truly pays attention, the delicate rustling and whistling of grass blades can transport us to a tranquil and serene world. Let’s dive into the captivating nuances of this verdant orchestra and attempt to capture its essence through the artful arrangement of words.

The rustling sound of grass, like the soft whispers of secrets between friends, carries an air of delicate mystery. It is a symphony created by countless individual grass blades as they sway in the wind, effortlessly harmonizing their movements. The varying lengths, thicknesses, and textures of these blades contribute to the richness of the auditory experience. As each blade collides, brushing against its neighboring companions, a gentle chorus rises. It is a symphony that oscillates between a gentle hush and a playful whisper, reminiscent of the passage of time or even the circadian rhythm of nature herself.

• Subtle whistles: Amidst the rustles, the grass occasionally emits faint whistles, as if whispering secrets only audible to the keenest of listeners. These ethereal sounds, weaved into the fabric of the symphony, add an enchanting layer of detail to this performance of whispers.
• Seasonal variations: The symphony of grass is not static but is ever-changing, influenced by the seasons themselves. In the meadows of spring, the rustling may arise jubilantly, mimicking the delightful laughter of a flourishing ecosystem. However, in the serenades of winter, the grass may whisper more solemnly, as if sharing tales of stoicism and resilience.

Nature has always been an endless source of inspiration, captivating the human mind with its enchanting beauty. One such mesmerizing sight is that of grass gently swaying in the wind, gracefully dancing to the rhythm of nature’s symphony. The fluid motion and elegance portrayed by the blades of grass as they bend and twist create an ethereal spectacle, a true masterpiece of nature’s artistry.

The graceful movement and swaying of grass serves as a reminder of the delicate balance and harmony that exists within the natural world. Each blade, unique in its position and length, contributes to the overall choreography of this mystical dance in the wind. As the gentle breeze touches the surface, the blades respond, creating a mesmerizing visual display, too beautiful to be put into words.

The dance of the grass showcases the intricate connection between the elements of the environment. It symbolizes the delicate interplay of wind, sunlight, and soil, each playing a vital role in nurturing and sustaining this elegant spectacle. The wind acts as the conductor, leading the blades in a synchronized rhythm while allowing them to express their individuality. The warm embrace of sunlight provides the energy needed, propelling this dance forward, while the soil, the steadfast foundation, supports and anchors every movement.

It is in this harmonious movement of the grass that we witness the gentle power of nature and its ability to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility within us. Observing the dance in the wind, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of all living things and the beauty that comes from embracing diversity and allowing each unique element to contribute to the symphony of life. Just as the grass sways, we too should strive to move through life gracefully and adapt to the changing winds with resilience, always finding beauty in the dance.

The aroma of nature is a symphony for our olfactory senses, encompassing a myriad of captivating scents. Among them, the earthy, fresh fragrance of verdant grass stands out as a quintessential embodiment of the natural world. This distinct aroma transports us to idyllic landscapes, where blankets of lush green grass stretch out beneath open skies, beckoning us to indulge in its sensory allure.

Let’s embark on a sensory journey and explore the elements that contribute to the intoxicating scent of verdant grass:

• Chemical compounds: The distinct smell of grass is a result of several chemical compounds released by the plant. The most prominent one is geosmin , a microbial byproduct that lends earthy undertones to the aroma. Additionally, terpenes and pyrazines contribute to the fresh, green notes.
• Chlorophyll: The vibrant color of grass, derived from chlorophyll, is not only visually pleasing but also contributes to its fragrance. This essential pigment undergoes a process called volatile breakdown , releasing compounds that add to the sweet, hay-like scent of freshly mown grass.
• Nature’s breath: The verdant grasses of meadows and lawns interact with the surrounding environment, absorbing and releasing scents. These natural surroundings infuse the grass fragrance with hints of wildflowers , tree sap , and even the subtle muskiness of damp soil after a rainfall.

The aroma of verdant grass is nature’s poetry, a fragrant ode to the beauty of the Earth. Take a moment to immerse yourself in its earthy splendor and let the essence of the grass transport you to a tranquil place where the scent of the natural world revitalizes the spirit.

When it comes to capturing the essence of nature in your writing, the humble grass can be a powerful tool. Whether you’re a writer looking to add depth to your descriptions, or simply a nature enthusiast wanting to enhance your observations, these tips and techniques will help you create evocative grass descriptions that transport your readers to lush meadows and sun-kissed fields.

• Engage the senses: To make your grass descriptions truly come alive, evoke all five senses in your writing. Describe the soft touch of the blades against the skin, the earthy scent after a summer rain, the vibrant green hues dancing beneath the sunlight, the gentle rustling sound with each passing breeze — these details will immerse your readers in the natural world.
• Select powerful adjectives: Choose specific and vivid adjectives to breathe life into your grass descriptions. Instead of “green,” opt for “lush,” “emerald,” or “verdant.” Replace “ordinary” with “exquisite” or “enchanting.” Experiment with a variety of adjectives to find the ones that best convey the mood or atmosphere you are aiming for.
• Use metaphors and similes: Comparing grass to other objects or phenomena can add depth and interest to your descriptions. For example, you could liken the way grass bends in the wind to a graceful dancer, or compare its softness to a baby’s blanket. Metaphors and similes offer a fresh perspective and help readers visualize the grass in a unique and memorable way.

By incorporating these techniques into your writing, you’ll transform simple grass descriptions into vivid, sensory experiences that captivate your readers. So, grab your pen or open your word processor, and let your imagination wander through the sprawling fields of grass, ready to be beautifully depicted in your next piece of writing.

When it comes to writing vividly, incorporating the imagery of lush green grass can transport your readers to refreshing outdoor landscapes. By infusing your prose with lively grass imagery, you can invigorate your writing, adding depth and sensory appeal. Here are a few tips to help you bring this element to life in your writing:

• Powerful metaphors: Comparing the vibrancy of a character or a situation to a verdant field of grass creates a striking visual image that leaves a lasting impression on your readers. It can convey the idea of growth, vitality, and abundance, injecting energy into your narrative.
• Evoking sensations: Describing the feel of grass beneath one’s feet or the gentle rustle as the wind playfully caresses the blades can enhance the sensory experience for your readers. This tactile imagery allows them to connect on a deeper level, immersing themselves in your writing.
• Symbolic landscapes: Grass-covered landscapes can signify themes such as renewal, rebirth, or even hidden dangers lurking beneath a seemingly calm surface. Utilizing such imagery in a symbolic context can convey meanings beyond the literal, adding layers of complexity to your storytelling.

By incorporating lively grass imagery into your prose, you breathe life into your writing, adding an organic touch that engages your readers on a profound level. Whether you use it as a metaphor, to evoke sensations, or to convey deeper meanings, the grass becomes more than just green blades. It becomes a powerful tool to infuse your writing with energy, inviting your readers to walk barefoot on the lush landscapes of your imagination.

Q: What is the purpose of the article “Earthly Whispers: Describing Grass in Creative Writing”?

A: The purpose of this article is to provide writers with creative and effective ways to describe grass in their writing, helping them paint vivid images and engage readers on a deeper level.

Q: Why is it important to be able to describe grass effectively in creative writing?

A: Grass is a common element in outdoor settings and natural landscapes, making it a frequently mentioned subject in various pieces of writing. By developing the skill to describe grass with creativity and precision, writers can capture the essence of a scene and transport readers into the world they are creating.

Q: How can describing grass enhance the overall quality of creative writing?

A: By describing grass in compelling ways, writers can bring texture, color, and movement to their scenes. Such details help establish a sensory experience for readers, making it easier for them to visualize and immerse themselves in the story or setting.

Q: What are some techniques that can be used to describe grass effectively?

A: There are several techniques that writers can employ to describe grass creatively. These include using sensory language , employing metaphors or similes, exploring variations in color and texture, and highlighting the role of grass in specific environments or seasons.

Q: How can sensory language be utilized in describing grass?

A: Sensory language involves appealing to the reader’s senses, so when describing grass, a writer might capture the softness of the blades underfoot, the earthy aroma it emits, the sound of a gentle breeze rustling through it, or the sight of dew droplets glistening on its surface. Engaging multiple senses adds depth and richness to the imagery.

Q: Can you provide an example of a metaphor or simile that can be used to depict grass?

A: Certainly! For instance, one might describe grass as a “lush green carpet,” emphasizing its vibrant and uniform appearance. Another example is comparing grass to “nature’s paintbrush,” suggesting its ability to beautify landscapes and add splashes of color.

Q: How can variations in color and texture be used to describe grass?

A: Grass can have many shades of green, from emerald to olive or lime. By exploring these variations, writers can create a more nuanced and compelling description. Texture can also vary greatly, from coarse blades to soft, velvety patches. Describing these aspects can evoke different moods or feelings associated with grass.

Q: In what ways can grass be tied to specific environments or seasons?

A: Grass can serve as a representation of the environment it thrives in. For example, tall, wild grass gently swaying in the breeze may evoke images of meadows or countryside settings, while short and perfectly manicured grass may be associated with well-maintained city parks or gardens. By linking grass to its surroundings, writers can add depth to their descriptions.

Q: Any final tips for writers looking to excel in the art of describing grass?

A: Practice is key. Engage in observation exercises to familiarize yourself with the details of grass and experiment with different descriptive approaches. Additionally, reading and studying the works of seasoned writers who skillfully depict natural environments can offer inspiration and insights to further enhance your descriptive abilities. Remember, practice and exposure to different writing styles are essential in sharpening your craft.

In conclusion, “Earthly Whispers” highlights the importance of capturing the essence of grass in creative writing, allowing readers to connect with nature on a deeper level.

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At Creative Writing Prompts, we believe in the power of words to shape worlds. Our platform is a sanctuary for aspiring writers, seasoned wordsmiths, and everyone. Here, storytelling finds its home, and your creative journey begins its captivating voyage.

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12 Nature-Inspired Creative Writing Prompts

by Melissa Donovan | Jun 20, 2024 | Creative Writing Prompts | 16 comments

Nature inspires, and so do these creative writing prompts.

Today’s post includes a selection of prompts from my book, 1200 Creative Writing Prompts . Enjoy!

Creative writing prompts are excellent tools for writers who are feeling uninspired or who simply want to tackle a new writing challenge. Today’s creative writing prompts focus on nature.

For centuries, writers have been composing poems that celebrate nature, stories that explore it, and essays that analyze it.

Nature is a huge source of inspiration for all creative people. You can find it heavily featured in film, television, art, and music.

Creative Writing Prompts

You can use these creative writing prompts in any way you choose. Sketch a scene, write a poem, draft a story, or compose an essay. The purpose of these prompts is to inspire you, so take the images they bring to your mind and run with them. And have fun!

• A young girl and her mother walk to the edge of a field, kneel down in the grass, and plant a tree.
• The protagonist wakes up in a seemingly endless field of wildflowers in full bloom with no idea how he or she got there.
• Write a piece using the following image: a smashed flower on the sidewalk.
• A family of five from a large, urban city decides to spend their one-week vacation camping.
• An elderly couple traveling through the desert spend an evening stargazing and sharing memories of their lives.
• A woman is working in her garden when she discovers an unusual egg.
• Write a piece using the following image: a clearing deep in the woods where sunlight filters through the overhead lattice of tree leaves.
• Some people are hiking in the woods when they are suddenly surrounded by hundreds of butterflies.
• A person who lives in a metropolitan apartment connects with nature through the birds that come to the window.
• Write a piece using the following image: an owl soaring through the night sky.
• A well-to-do family from the city that has lost all their wealth except an old, run-down farmhouse in the country. They are forced to move into it and learn to live humbly.
• Two adolescents, a sister and brother, are visiting their relatives’ farm and witness a sow giving birth.

Again, you can use these creative writing prompts to write anything — poems, stories, songs, essays, blog posts, or just sit down and start freewriting.

16 Comments

lovely prompts… really simple line or two that just strikes up imagery and let you freestyle all over it. Nice one

Thanks, Rory!

thanks for the good ideas good short story for someone in grade 8

Thanks. I just read through your list of prompts and got flashes of either beginnings or endings for stories from every one. I’ve not seen prmopts like these much on the web, so well done. Such a simple idea with so much power and potential. If only I had the day off to get cracking!

I love to create and use writing prompts, and I’m glad you found these to be useful. Thanks!

Hello. Supernatural or magic realism is pretty much all I write. I’ve got a prompt. ‘A young teenager is walking home during a storm and ends up getting struck by lightning. The next day they wake up to find that the accident turned them into an inhuman being.’ I’ve heard of this type of scenario before and I thought it would make for a great story. I love creating my own ideas of course but writing prompts are just fun challenge myself with and see what I can create out of already given ideas. I really like the prompts you give. As I said they are enjoyable to mess around with.

Thanks for sharing your prompt, Kristen. I agree that prompts are fun and can be challenging. I’m glad you like these. Keep writing!

#7 Woodland Clearing

Winter trees screen blue and sunny skies, Intense but icy light the heat belies. Spikey, naked, dormant maids and men Wait for the earth to turn around again.

And bring the warmth that touches every thread Of bark and twigs and all that acted dead Until the full-blown leaves create a wall Shortening the view until late fall

When sun and clouds break through the limbs again And show clear-cut those lacey maids and men Black for a time against the coldest air While waiting for the Spring to deck them fair

With leaves that seem to turn the world to green Creating hidden meadows only seen By animals and birds and mist and rains. For ages before calendars and trains.

Humanity intrudes in such a place And fools themselves that they have found a space Where they belong beneath the patchy light To rip and tear and exercise their might.

For meadow edges have no need to stand Between the woods and grassy, open land Where bugs and bears and buntings feel the sun. ‘Till people think they do what must be done.

April 27, 2019

Hi Jennifa. Thanks for sharing your lovely poem here.

That is a stunningly good poem, Jennifa. Far more worthy than just an obscure comment thread here. I hope you found a home for it where more eyes will see it. If you are published anywhere, I’d love to find out.

Wow. These are truly amazing prompts! Just a few lines of inspiration and now my mind is filled with creativity. Please come up with more! <3

You’ll find plenty more in the Writing Prompts section of the Blog menu.

these are really helpful

Thanks, Flo! I’m glad you found them helpful.

What lovely prompts. I’m going to do some free writing and see what comes out. And maybe a poem or two.

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24 Profoundly Beautiful Words That Describe Nature and Landscapes

Melissa Breyer is Treehugger’s former senior editorial director. Her writing and photography have been featured in The New York Times, The Guardian, National Geographic, Audubon Magazine, and elsewhere.

• Hunter College
• F.I.T., State University of New York
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From aquabob to zawn, writer Robert Macfarlane's collection of unusual, achingly poetic words for nature creates a lexicon we all can learn from.

Years ago, nature writer extraordinaire Robert Macfarlane discovered that the latest edition of the Oxford Junior Dictionary was missing a few things. Oxford University Press confirmed that, indeed, a list of words had been removed; words that the publisher felt were no longer relevant to a modern-day childhood. So goodbye to acorn, adder, ash, and beech. Farewell to bluebell, buttercup, catkin, and conker. Adios cowslip, cygnet, dandelion, fern, hazel, and heather. No more heron, ivy, kingfisher, lark, mistletoe, nectar, newt, otter, pasture, and willow. And in their place came the new kids on the block, words like blog, broadband, bullet-point, celebrity, chatroom, committee, cut-and-paste, MP3 player, and voice-mail.

Woe is the world of words.

Macfarlane's Glossary

 Treehugger / Catherine Song

Inspired by the culling, and in combination with a lifetime of collecting terms about place, Macfarlane set out to counter the trend by creating a glossary of his own.

“We lack a Terra Britannica, as it were: a gathering of terms for the land and its weathers,” he wrote in a beautiful essay in The Guardian , “– terms used by crofters, fishermen, farmers, sailors, scientists, miners, climbers, soldiers, shepherds, poets, walkers and unrecorded others for whom particularised ways of describing place have been vital to everyday practice and perception.”

And thus his book, Landmarks , was born. A field guide of sorts to the language of the wild world— an ode to the places afforded to us by nature—that includes thousands of remarkable words used in England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales to describe land, the natural world, and weather.

The words in Macfarlane's book came from dozens of languages, he explains—dialects, sub-dialects, and specialist vocabularies: from Unst to the Lizard, from Pembrokeshire to Norfolk; from Norn and Old English, Anglo-Romani, Cornish, Welsh, Irish, Gaelic, Orcadian, Shetlandic and Doric, and numerous regional versions of English, through to Jérriais, the dialect of Norman still spoken on the island of Jersey.

“I have long been fascinated by the relations of language and landscape – by the power of strong style and single words to shape our senses of place,” he writes. Of the thousands of wonderful words included in the book, here are some that warranted mention in Macfarlane’s essay.

24 Beautiful Nature Words

Afèith: A Gaelic word describing a fine vein-like watercourse running through peat, often dry in the summer.

Ammil: A Devon term for the thin film of ice lacquering all leaves, twigs, and grass blades when a freeze follows a partial thaw and that can cause a whole landscape to glitter in sunlight.

Aquabob: A variant English term for icicle in Kent.

Arête: A sharp-edged mountain ridge, often between two glacier-carved corries.

Caochan: Gaelic for a slender moor stream obscured by vegetation such that it is virtually hidden from sight.

Clinkerbell: A variant English term for icicle in Hampshire.

Crizzle: Northamptonshire dialect verb for the freezing of water that evokes the sound of a natural activity too slow for human hearing to detect.

Daggler: Another variant English term for icicle in Hampshire.

Eit: In Gaelic, a word referring to placing quartz stones in streams so they sparkle in the moonlight, thereby attracting salmon in the late summer and autumn.

Feadan: A Gaelic word describing a small stream running from a moorland loch.

Goldfoil: Coined by the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, describing a sky lit by lightning in “zigzag dints and creasings.”

Honeyfur: A five-year-old girl’s creation to describe the soft seeds of grasses pinched between fingertips.

Ickle: A variant English term for icicle in Yorkshire.

Landskein: A term coined by a painter in the Western Isles, it refers to the braid of blue horizon lines on a hazy day.

Pirr: A Shetlandic word meaning a light breath of wind such as will make a cat’s paw on the water.

Rionnach maoimmeans: A Gaelic word referring to the shadows cast on the moorland by clouds moving across the sky on a bright, windy day.

Shivelight: A word created by poet Gerard Manley Hopkins for the lances of sunshine that pierce a wood's canopy.

Shuckle: A variant English term for icicle in Cumbria.

Smeuse: An English dialect noun for the gap in the base of a hedge made by the regular passage of a small animal.

Tankle: A variant English term for icicle in Durham.

Teine biorach: A Gaelic term meaning the flame or will-o’-the-wisp that runs on top of heather when the moor burns during summer.

Ungive: In Northamptonshire and East Anglia, to thaw.

Zawn: A Cornish term for a wave-smashed chasm in a cliff.

Zwer: The onomatopoeic term for the sound made by a covey of partridges taking flight.

"There are experiences of landscape that will always resist articulation, and of which words offer only a distant echo. Nature will not name itself. Granite doesn’t self-identify as igneous. Light has no grammar. Language is always late for its subject," Macfarlane says. "But we are and always have been name-callers, christeners."

"Words are grained into our landscapes," he adds, "and landscapes grained into our words."

For audiobook listeners, note that hearing these words spoken is a special thing!

Macfarlane, Robert.  Landmarks . Penguin Books.

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