Acrostic

An acrostic is a poem which spells out a word or idea. Sometimes what it spells out is the title of the poem itself.

Example

Masqueraders

Masquerading in our midst
Are ostensibly typical people
Shouldering average tasks
Quiet, inconspicuous, drab
Until we get a closer look
Emanating is a foul odor
Rancid, putrid stench contaminating
Aura distorted to shady tint
Deception in their very souls
Extenuating their corrupt character
Rationalizing about their immorality
Shoving the blame on circumstance
- written by Gabriella 2

Usually, as in this example, the first letter of each line spells out this key word. But variations can be attempted — such as having both the first and last letters of each line spell out a word.

More Examples

Rejoice in Life

Revel loudly with each new rising sun
Enjoy each hour until day is done
Join together with family and friends
Only in motion sweet life never ends
Invite all beautiful hearts be merry
Cherish good love and of hate be wary
Elation arises from conscience clear
Invest dearly in living without fear
No future ever comes without question
Live in the moment - the best suggestion
In this brief moment in infinite time
Find Heaven in a kiss, joy in a rhyme
Eternity waits, make this life sublime
- written by fayesh

An acrostic can also spell out several words.

Boots and Spurs

Boots and spurs are his attire
On the prairie 'neath the Rockies
Out where purple sage grows heavy
There astride his half-tame bronco
Sits the cattle kingdom sentry

Always welcomed by the sunrise
Near his God as each day strengthens
Daunted not by work or weather

Saddle-tough and cattle savvy
Plying well his toil in season
Using tools of his acquaintance
Rowels on silver spurs a-jingle
Send their music through the ages
- written by dportwood

Examples provided by the writers at FanStory