The Zingara Project

Whispers of Work: A Lament for Extinct Professions

Written by

Lisa Hase-Jackson

in

,
Write a poem about a profession which does not exist anymore or which is phasing out.
If you like, you can aim for an ode, a lament, a diatribe, a docu-poem, narrative poem, or found poem with your chosen profession as the central image, setting, or source.

Examples of extinct professions:

  • ice cutter
  • elevator operator
  • milkman
  • lamplighter
  • switchboard operator

Examples of professions phasing away:

  • farmer
  • travel agent
  • mason
  • tailor
  • literary translator

Professions at serious risk:

  • teacher
  • librarian
  • journalist
  • writer

For Inspiration:

“Barnwork We Didn’t Talk Much About” by Charles A. Swanson, Zingara Poetry Review

“Stay at Home Mom” by  Sabina M. Säfsten, Zingara Poetry Review

“Fugitives” by Stephen Mead, Zingara Poetry Review
“The Milkman” by Isabella Gardner, Poetry Foundation
“London’s Summer Morning” by Mary Robinson, Poetry Foundation

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Comments

7 responses to “Whispers of Work: A Lament for Extinct Professions”

  1. Ruth Avatar
    Ruth

    What a terrific prompt. It’s a long list, isn’t it?
    I especially like your linking to other poems for inspiration.

    Reply
    1. Lisa Hase-Jackson Avatar
      Lisa Hase-Jackson

      Thanks Ruth!

      Reply
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Always nice to connect.

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