Ode to Objects: Everything But a Book Exchange

What if your gift had a story to tell?

Join Girls Who Write for a playful literary gift exchange where the object is a mystery, but the ode gives us clues.

Bring a small gift inspired by books, reading, writing, or the literary life—but leave the book at home! You’ll write a short ode celebrating the object you brought without actually naming it. Then, we’ll read our odes aloud and let everyone try to guess: What is it?

But What Exactly Is an Ode?

An ode is a poem that celebrates or praises a person, place, idea, or object. It can be heartfelt, funny, dramatic, ridiculous, or all of the above.

For this event, your job is simple: fall dramatically in love with your object.

Tell us why it matters. Describe what it looks, feels, sounds, smells, or even tastes like. Tell us what memories it evokes, what it reminds you of, or why the world would be slightly less wonderful without it.

And there’s just one rule:

Don’t tell us what it is!

Use your words to paint a picture without giving away the answer. Think vivid descriptions, unexpected comparisons, exaggeration, humor, memories, and sensory details.

You might begin with:

Oh, beloved object…
You have been there when…
How could I live without you?
You are the…

You don’t have to consider yourself a poet. An ode is simply a love letter to something.

What to Bring

-A small literary, writing, or reading-themed gift — wrapped and ready for exchange
-A short ode about your object — but don’t reveal what it is!
-Your imagination — the more creative your clues, the better

We’ll read our odes aloud, guess the mystery objects, and then exchange the gifts.

Come ready to laugh, listen, guess, and celebrate the wonderfully ordinary things that inspire our stories.

First time guest are free.

RSVP to Nicole at 801 808 1294 to get the address.

Members RSVP in GroupMe.