Word Play: Poetry, Prompts, and Prophecies from Your Favorite Daily Word Game

I lost at Wordle yesterday. I was mad at myself because on the fourth line, I accidentally used a yellow letter in the same place I’d used it in the previous line, which is what happens when you attempt word games before you’ve had coffee. On the sixth line, I convinced myself I’d figured out the answer and felt brief relief until I realized my mistake. The word was wheat, not cheat, but I felt cheated anyway.

I like Wordle. It’s a fun, quick game, and my family plays too, so we enjoy the friendly competition. But I recently realized that Wordle is more than just a daily brain exercise and a way to pass the time while brushing your teeth. It has practical and creative uses as well. If you’re a writer or an artist or a person who seeks guidance from the stars, and you haven’t been playing Wordle, maybe you should start.

Wordle Use #1: Found Poems

I love found poetry. I’ve been itching to make some new book title poems, and there’s no better time than National Poetry Month, so look for a post with some new creations soon. But you don’t need a large library or a stack of magazines and a pair of scissors to make found poetry if you have Wordle. Check out some of these poetic gems that have showed up on my screen.

Wordle Use #2: Writing/Art Prompts

Sometimes my Wordle guesses don’t form anything that could be called a poem, but they still conjure intriguing settings, characters, or scenarios that are great fodder for short stories, illustrations, or even novel ideas. Consider these for instance.

Wordle Use #3: Fortune-Telling

I love found fortunes even more than found poetry. Horoscopes and Tarot cards are good, of course, and I consult my Magic 8 Ball on occasion, but nothing beats the bits of advice and little peeks into the cosmos you get from the more random forms of divination, such as the following methods:

• Turn on the radio. Push the third preset button. The second song you hear holds a message about your day.
• Think of a question. Open the nearest book to the year you were born. The third paragraph contains the answer.
• Pay attention to the next person you see wearing a blue shirt. Their mood/demeanor is a preview of what your day will be like tomorrow.

Wordle results, too, can offer helpful tips and warnings. I have personally received the following messages.

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I’m not trying to claim that every Wordle game is a treasure trove of inspiration and prophecy. It’s definitely not.

I’m only suggesting that you open your mind to the possibilities. Before you switch off your phone after celebrating your success (I got Wordle in four lines today, which is decent) or mourn your loss (don’t worry, it happens to the best of us), take a look at the unique creation you’ve crafted. There may be a poem, a prompt, or a prophecy hidden there.