11 Heartfelt Prompts for Writing a Bereavement Poem for a Friend

Writing a bereavement poem for a friend can be a comforting way to honour their memory, express grief, and cherish the moments you shared. Whether you’re writing for a personal tribute or to read at a funeral service, these heartfelt prompts can guide you in expressing your love and loss through poetry in a genuine and deeply meaningful way

Reading a Pre-Written Bereavement Poem for a Friend or Writing Your Own

When preparing a bereavement poem for a friend, especially for a funeral or memorial, you may feel torn between writing your own piece or selecting a famous poem that resonates with your feelings. Writing can be cathartic, but reading a classic piece can also provide comfort and express your sentiments. One beautiful option is Alfred Lord Tennyson’s “In Memoriam A.H.H.”, written as a tribute to his beloved friend. A famous stanza in this piece reads:

“I hold it true, whate’er befall;
I feel it, when I sorrow most;
’Tis better to have loved and lost
Than never to have loved at all.”

1. “I Wish I’d Said…”
   
   The AVBOB Poetry Project’s theme, “I Wish I’d Said,” invites writers to express sentiments that often remain unspoken. A bereavement poem for a friend can reflect the things you wish you had shared with them – the laughter, the love, or the simple gratitude that didn’t get voiced.
   
   
2. Memories That Feel Like Yesterday
   
   Think of a vivid memory that feels as if it happened just yesterday. Writing from this recollection can allow you to relive that cherished experience while honouring how it affected you.
   
   
3. The Little Reminders You’ll Carry with You
   
   We often find reminders of loved ones in small, everyday things, like their favourite song, a particular scent, or a place cherished. You can use these reminders as symbols in your poem, connecting the ordinary world with the extraordinary bond you shared.
   
   
4. A Tribute to What You Cherish Most
   
   Think about the traits you loved most about your friend, whether it was their kindness, wisdom, or sense of humour. Focusing on these unique qualities in your poem makes for a personal tribute that speaks to who they were and reminds one of why they were so special.
   
   
5. The Impact of Their Friendship
   
   True friendship naturally shapes us in lasting ways, so take the time to think about the ways your friend influenced who you are today. Acknowledging this impact with gratitude in your poem is a beautiful way to honour their legacy.
   
   
6. A Letter Addressing the Departed
   
   Writing a bereavement poem as a letter to your friend can help you in the grieving and healing process. This approach can be a comforting way to keep their presence close and express your connection.
   
   
7. The Places You’ll Miss Them Most
   
   Think of the places that feel emptier without your friend – perhaps it’s a favourite coffee shop, a hiking trail, or a cosy spot at home. Let these locations serve as settings in your poem, each one a reminder of shared moments and the presence you now miss.
   
   
8. The “Firsts” You’ll Have Without Them
   
   Firsts are often the hardest moments when grieving someone. Writing about these events that will happen without your friend – like a birthday or holiday – allows you to honour their place in your life and acknowledge the adjustments that come with their absence.
   
   
9. Celebrate The Joyful Moments
   
   While grief is painful, the memories of joy can bring comfort. Write a poem that celebrates the happiness, laughter, and love you shared with your friend. This approach can help balance sorrow with gratitude, giving you perspective and turning emotions into praise.
   
   
10. Reminders Found in Nature
    
    Nature often mirrors the cycles of life and loss. You can use natural elements in your poem, like flowers, water, animals, or natural phenomena, to symbolise your friend’s presence in your life. This may offer you solace and a sense of continuity.
    
    
11. How You Will Remember Them
    
    Consider the most important things you want the world to remember about your friend and their legacy. What values did they live by? What impact did they have on the lives of those around them? Use your poem as a way to affirm how their memory will live on and how they made the world a better place.
    
    

If you have written a bereavement poem for a friend and wish to share it with the world, the AVBOB Poetry Project competition closes on 30 November 2024. By entering the contest, you might just resonate with, and comfort, readers who have lost someone dear to them too.