Writing Beginner

How To Describe a River in Writing (100+ Examples & Words)

Rivers are the veins of the Earth, flowing with life and stories.

Here is how to describe a river in writing:

Describe a river in writing by focusing on its course, sound, color, temperature, wildlife, banks, reflections, mood, interaction with light, and historical significance. Use colorful words and phrases to bring its unique characteristics to life in your narrative.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to describe a river in writing.

Types of Rivers to Describe in Writing

Serene river flowing through lush landscape, symbolizing descriptive writing - How to describe a river in writing

Table of Contents

  • Mountain Rivers : Originating from high altitudes, these rivers are typically characterized by steep gradients, fast-flowing currents, and rocky beds. They often create rapids and waterfalls as they descend.
  • Lowland Rivers : Found in flatter areas, lowland rivers have a gentle slope and slower current, often meandering through the landscape.
  • Rain-fed Rivers : These rivers swell and flow primarily during the rainy season, often drying up or reducing significantly in the dry season.
  • Glacial Rivers : Fed by the melting of glaciers, these rivers are often cold, with a milky appearance due to the sediment known as glacial flour.
  • Perennial Rivers : Flowing throughout the year, perennial rivers are fed by a combination of rainfall, springs, and snowmelt.
  • Intermittent Rivers : These rivers flow only during certain times of the year, typically in response to seasonal rainfall.
  • Tributaries : Smaller rivers or streams that feed into a larger river, contributing to its flow and volume.
  • Deltaic Rivers : Forming deltas where they meet the sea, these rivers carry sediments that create rich, fertile land.
  • Subterranean Rivers : Flowing underground, these hidden rivers carve through caves and are often only partially accessible.
  • Artificial Rivers : Man-made rivers or canals, created for navigation, irrigation, or other purposes.

10 Elements of Rivers to Describe in a Story

Let’s explore ten essential elements of rivers and how to describe them, providing you with ample examples to enhance your narrative.

1. The River’s Course

The course of a river – its path from source to mouth – is fundamental to its identity.

It shapes the river’s behavior, influences its surroundings, and impacts the stories unfolding along its banks.

A river’s course can be straight, winding, or braided, each type offering a different narrative potential.

  • “The river carved a sinuous path through the lush valley, a serpent winding through Eden.”
  • “Rushing straight as an arrow, the river channeled its force, unyielding and determined.”
  • “The river meandered lazily, like a daydreamer taking a leisurely stroll.”
  • “In its youthful stage, the river danced over rocks, playful and untamed.”
  • “A network of braided channels spread across the delta, like the roots of an ancient tree.”
  • “At each turn, the river unveiled hidden groves and secret fishing spots.”
  • “The river’s journey was interrupted by sharp turns, creating eddies and whirlpools.”
  • “In its old age, the river looped and doubled back, reluctant to reach the sea.”
  • “The river traced the contours of the landscape, a natural artist at work.”
  • “Bending around cliffs, the river sculpted the land, a master carver over millennia.”

2. The River’s Sound

The sound of a river is as much a part of its character as its course.

It can be a gentle babble, a soothing whisper, or a roaring torrent, each conveying a different mood and atmosphere.

  • “The gentle babbling of the river was like a lullaby, calming and serene.”
  • “A symphony of splashes and gurgles accompanied the river’s journey over pebbles and rocks.”
  • “The river’s roar in the canyon echoed, a testament to its raw power.”
  • “Soft whispers of flowing water created a tapestry of sound, soothing and constant.”
  • “At the waterfall, the river’s voice crescendoed into a thunderous applause.”
  • “The quiet flow was barely audible, like a secret conversation among the stones.”
  • “In the still night, the river’s murmuring was a companion to the stars.”
  • “The playful chattering of the river as it skipped over obstacles brought a sense of joy.”
  • “A deep, resonant sound emanated from the river’s depths, mysterious and ancient.”
  • “As rain fell, the river’s song grew louder, a chorus swelling with each drop.”

3. The River’s Color

The color of a river can vary greatly, influenced by its source, the minerals it carries, and the light it reflects.

Describing its color adds a visual dimension to the narrative.

  • “The river shimmered in hues of emerald and sapphire, a jewel under the sun.”
  • “A rich, muddy brown, the river carried the soil of distant lands in its flow.”
  • “The glacial river’s icy blue was mesmerizing, a frozen dance of light and water.”
  • “In the twilight, the river turned a soft, pearly gray, mirroring the sky.”
  • “Green with algae, the river spoke of the life teeming beneath its surface.”
  • “The river’s black waters at night were like a portal to another world.”
  • “A silvery sheen coated the river, a reflection of the moon’s gentle glow.”
  • “Rust-colored from iron-rich soils, the river was a ribbon of fire in the sunlight.”
  • “The crystal-clear water revealed every pebble and fish, a window into the riverbed.”
  • “In the rain, the river’s colors muted, a watercolor painting blending into the landscape.”

4. The River’s Temperature

The temperature of a river can influence the behavior of its inhabitants and the experience of those who venture near it.

It can range from icy cold to comfortably warm.

  • “The river’s icy touch was invigorating, a shock of cold that awakened the senses.”
  • “Warm as bathwater, the river invited a leisurely swim on a hot summer day.”
  • “The cool current provided a refreshing respite from the afternoon heat.”
  • “A frigid stream from the mountain’s heart, the river numbed fingers and toes.”
  • “The tepid water was like a gentle embrace, soothing and mild.”
  • “In the spring, the river’s chill was a reminder of the melting snow that fed it.”
  • “Swimming in the river felt like dipping into liquid sunshine, its warmth enveloping me.”
  • “The river, chilled by the deep forest’s shade, flowed silently and cold.”
  • “Near the hot springs, the river’s warmth was a natural spa, therapeutic and inviting.”
  • “In winter, the river’s icy surface hid the still-cold waters beneath.”
  • “The river’s lukewarm embrace in the evening hinted at the day’s lingering heat.”

5. The River’s Wildlife

The wildlife in and around a river is a testament to its ecological richness.

Describing the creatures that inhabit its waters and banks can bring a scene to life.

  • “Fish darted in the river’s clear depths, flashes of silver in the sunlight.”
  • “Birds sang from the riverside, a chorus of melodies blending with the water’s flow.”
  • “Frogs croaked rhythmically at dusk, serenading the river with their evening chorus.”
  • “Otters played in the river, their antics a joyful dance of life.”
  • “Elegant herons stood along the banks, silent sentinels fishing in the shallows.”
  • “Dragonflies skimmed the river’s surface, a display of aerial acrobatics in vibrant colors.”
  • “Beavers busied themselves with dam-building, architects of the river’s landscape.”
  • “Ducks and geese paddled along, creating gentle ripples in the calm waters.”
  • “A deer cautiously approached the river, its reflection joining it for a drink.”
  • “Schools of small fish swirled in the shallows, a living mosaic beneath the waves.”

6. The River’s Banks

The banks of a river frame its waters and are often as varied and interesting as the river itself.

From sandy shores to rocky ledges, the banks tell their own story.

  • “Tall grasses swayed along the river’s banks, a gentle dance with the breeze.”
  • “Trees leaned over the water, their leaves creating dappled patterns of light and shadow.”
  • “The sandy shore was a soft, warm blanket, inviting sunbathers and picnickers.”
  • “Rocks and boulders lined the river, creating miniature waterfalls and eddies.”
  • “Flowers bloomed in abundance on the riverbank, a riot of colors and scents.”
  • “Mudflats appeared at low tide, revealing the river’s hidden underbelly.”
  • “Steep cliffs towered over the river, casting dramatic shadows on the water below.”
  • “Roots of ancient trees gripped the banks, as if holding the river in an embrace.”
  • “Gravel beds crunched underfoot, a testament to the river’s erosive power.”
  • “In some places, the bank disappeared altogether, the river merging with the surrounding forest.”

7. The River’s Reflections

Reflections on a river can be as telling as the river itself, offering a mirrored view of the world around it.

They add a layer of beauty and depth to the scene.

  • “The river reflected the sky, a canvas of clouds and blue painted on its surface.”
  • “Trees mirrored in the still water, their upside-down images a ghostly forest.”
  • “The mountains loomed over the river, their grandeur doubled in its reflective depths.”
  • “Birds flying over were mirrored on the water, their flight captured in a fleeting moment.”
  • “At sunrise, the river blazed with the colors of the morning, a symphony of light.”
  • “The full moon cast a silver path across the river, a bridge to the other side.”
  • “Leaves floating on the surface created a moving mosaic, nature’s art in motion.”
  • “Stars twinkled on the river at night, a mirror to the heavens.”
  • “The river caught the fire of the sunset, ablaze with oranges and reds.”
  • “Clouds drifted in the river’s surface, a slow parade mirrored in the gentle currents.”

8. The River’s Mood

A river’s mood can change with the weather and seasons, reflecting the emotions of a scene.

Describing this mood can set the tone for the entire narrative.

  • “In the storm, the river was angry, its waters churning with fury.”
  • “On a sunny day, the river was joyful, sparkling with life and light.”
  • “In the fog, the river was mysterious, a hidden world shrouded in mist.”
  • “As the leaves fell, the river became melancholic, a reflection of autumn’s mood.”
  • “In the moonlight, the river was romantic, a silver path in the darkness.”
  • “When frozen, the river was silent and still, a pause in its endless journey.”
  • “In the dawn’s early light, the river was hopeful, a new day beginning.”
  • “During the flood, the river was powerful and relentless, reshaping the land.”
  • “In the evening, the river was peaceful, a serene end to the day.”
  • “Under the stars, the river became magical, a mystical pathway through the night.”

9. The River’s Interaction with Light

The way light interacts with a river can transform its appearance, creating a spectrum of visual effects.

Describing this interplay can add a vivid, almost magical quality to your narrative.

  • “Sunbeams pierced the canopy, turning the river into a ribbon of gold.”
  • “At dusk, the river absorbed the fading light, a soft glow lingering on its surface.”
  • “Moonlight cast a silvery sheen, giving the river an otherworldly appearance.”
  • “The sunrise set the river ablaze, a fiery mirror to the awakening sky.”
  • “Shadows and light danced on the water, a delicate balance of contrast and harmony.”
  • “In the midday sun, the river sparkled like a thousand diamonds strewn across its surface.”
  • “The overcast sky turned the river a somber gray, a mirror to the mood above.”
  • “Raindrops created tiny, concentric circles, a dynamic interplay of light and motion.”
  • “The northern lights above transformed the river into a canvas of ethereal colors.”
  • “In the twilight, the river’s surface shimmered, capturing the last whispers of daylight.”

10. The River’s Historical and Cultural Significance

Rivers often hold historical and cultural significance, serving as lifelines for civilizations and inspirations for countless stories and myths.

  • “Legends whispered of ancient battles fought along the river’s banks, its waters a silent witness.”
  • “The river had been a trade route for centuries, its flow carrying goods and stories.”
  • “Sacred rituals were performed by the water, the river a conduit to the divine.”
  • “Ancient carvings on the rocks told the river’s story, a testament to its enduring presence.”
  • “Folk songs sung by the river spoke of love, loss, and the passage of time.”
  • “The river’s name was entwined with local lore, a character in the community’s narrative.”
  • “Historic settlements along the riverbanks showcased its role in human settlement.”
  • “On its waters, festivals celebrated the river’s bounty and beauty.”
  • “The river was a boundary in old maps, a natural divider of lands and peoples.”
  • “In the quiet of the night, the river seemed to whisper the secrets of the ages.”

Check out this video about how to describe a river in writing:

50 Best Words to Describe Rivers in Writing

Choosing the right words is crucial in painting a vivid picture of a river in writing.

Words can capture the essence, movement, and mood of a river, making it leap off the page.

Here are 50 descriptive words to help you bring rivers to life in your writing:

  • Slow-moving
  • Crystal-clear
  • Invigorating

50 Best Phrases to Describe Rivers

Phrases can often convey the complexity and beauty of rivers more effectively than single words.

Here are 50 phrases that encapsulate different aspects of rivers, enriching your narrative with their depth and imagery:

  • A ribbon of blue cutting through the landscape
  • Murmuring secrets as it flows
  • Reflecting the ever-changing sky
  • Dancing with the sunlight
  • Carving its path through ancient rocks
  • Whispering to the pebbled shore
  • A mirror to the world above
  • Cradling life in its watery embrace
  • Where history and nature intertwine
  • The heartbeat of the wilderness
  • A journey from mountain to sea
  • Echoing the rhythm of the rain
  • A canvas of nature’s hues
  • Twisting like a dragon’s spine
  • The painter of its own meandering story
  • A serenade of water and wind
  • The laughter of the earth
  • A conduit between past and present
  • The keeper of age-old secrets
  • A symphony of ripples and waves
  • Shimmering under the moon’s gaze
  • A pathway for wandering souls
  • The song of the untamed
  • A cradle of biodiversity
  • The sculptor of valleys and canyons
  • Where myths and legends are born
  • The lifeline of the land
  • A fluid mosaic of light and shadow
  • Bridging realms with its flow
  • The whisperer of ancient tales
  • A tapestry woven by nature
  • Flowing like time itself
  • A dance of light and water
  • The artist of its own landscape
  • A melody of movement and stillness
  • The breath of the earth
  • An ever-changing masterpiece
  • The vein of the wilderness
  • A journey through seasons and time
  • The waltz of water and land
  • The stage for nature’s drama
  • A testament to resilience and change
  • The guardian of hidden depths
  • A blend of tranquility and tumult
  • The echo of the mountains
  • The canvas for sunrise and sunset
  • A fluid bridge between worlds
  • The nurturer of life and growth
  • A symphony composed by nature
  • The eternal storyteller of the earth

3 Full Examples for How to Describe a River in Writing

Describing a river effectively can vary significantly based on the genre of writing.

Here are three examples of how to describe a river, tailored to different genres: Thriller, Romance, and Science Fiction.

Thriller: The River’s Menace

The river flowed dark and treacherous under the moonless sky, its currents a silent predator lurking in the night.

The sound of water churning over rocks was like the low growl of a beast waiting in ambush. Shadows played on its surface, hiding secrets too dangerous to reveal. Each ripple seemed to whisper warnings, and the cold mist that rose from its depths carried an air of foreboding.

This was no idyllic waterway but a pathway into the heart of darkness, where every turn held a potential threat.

Romance: The River’s Embrace

The river flowed gently, a serene backdrop to a blossoming romance.

Sunlight danced on its surface, creating a sparkling path that led to an unknown future. The soft murmur of the water was like tender whispers shared between lovers. Along its banks, flowers bloomed in vibrant colors, mirroring the emotions that bloomed in their hearts. In the evening, the river reflected the glorious hues of the sunset, enveloping the lovers in a warm embrace.

It was a place of beginnings and promises, where every ripple spoke of love and hope.

Science Fiction: The River of Time

The river flowed not just with water, but with time itself.

Its currents were streams of moments, converging and diverging in an endless dance. Along its banks, reality seemed to warp, bending under the weight of possibilities. The water shimmered with an ethereal glow, illuminating a path that spanned beyond the known universe. Here, the river was not just a part of the landscape but a portal to other dimensions, a conduit to worlds unimagined.

It was a cosmic river, a flow of time and space that defied all laws of nature.

Final Thoughts: How to Describe a River in Writing

Capturing the essence of a river in writing is an art that enriches any narrative.

Explore more creative writing tips and techniques on our website.

Read This Next:

  • How To Describe a Lake in Writing (100+ Examples & Words)
  • How To Describe Waves in Writing (100+ Examples & Words)
  • How To Describe Hands In Writing (100+ Examples & Words)
  • How to Describe a Beach in Writing (21 Best Tips & Examples)

Writing Nestling

Writing Nestling

How To Describe A River In Writing

How To Describe A River In Writing (10 Best Ways)

Embarking on the art of describing a river in writing is akin to setting sail on a literary voyage where words become the oars that navigate the currents of imagination.

A river, with its meandering flow and dynamic personality, presents a rich tapestry for writers to explore and convey to readers.

This guide is an invitation to delve into the intricacies of capturing a river’s essence through the written word. From the visual poetry of its scenic landscapes to the melodic cadence of its flow, we will embark on a journey to unravel the techniques that breathe life into the river on the page.

Whether it’s the rhythmic dance of water, the seasonal metamorphosis, or the historical whispers carried in its currents, this guide aims to be a compass for writers navigating the fluid and ever-changing landscape of river descriptions.

So, let the words flow like a tributary, and let’s embark on a literary exploration of how to vividly describe a river.

Table of Contents

How To Describe A River In Writing

Describing a river in writing involves capturing its sensory details and conveying the overall experience. Here is a step-by-step process:

Observation

Begin by closely observing the river. Take note of its size, width, and flow. Pay attention to the surrounding landscape, such as the banks, vegetation, and any notable features.

Sensory Details

Describe the sensory elements of the river. Discuss the sounds it makes, whether it’s a gentle babble or a roaring cascade. Note the smells associated with the river, such as the freshness of the water or the earthy scent of the surroundings.

Visual Imagery

Use vivid and descriptive language to paint a picture of the river. Discuss the color of the water, the reflections, and the play of light on its surface. Mention any wildlife or boats that may be present.

Emotional Tone

Consider the emotional tone you want to convey. Does the river evoke a sense of tranquility, adventure, or mystery? Tailor your language to reflect the mood you want the reader to experience.

Temporal Elements

Address the river’s changing nature over time. Describe how it may alter with the seasons , the time of day, or in response to weather conditions. Mention any observable patterns in its behavior.

Comparisons and Metaphors

Enhance your description by using comparisons and metaphors. For example, you might liken the river to a silver ribbon winding through the landscape or describe its movements like a dancer gracefully gliding.

Human Interaction

If applicable, include any human elements related to the river. This could involve people fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the riverbanks. Consider how human presence adds to the overall scene.

Historical or Cultural Context

If the river has historical or cultural significance, incorporate relevant details. Discuss any stories, legends, or events associated with the river that contribute to its character.

Flow and Movement

Focus on the river’s dynamic qualities. Describe how it moves, whether it’s a fast-paced cascade or a meandering flow. Use words that convey a sense of rhythm and energy.

Summarize your overall impression of the river. Tie together the sensory details, emotions, and unique characteristics you’ve highlighted, leaving the reader with a lasting and evocative image of the river.

Remember to engage the reader’s senses and emotions throughout the description to create a rich and immersive portrayal of the river.

How To Describe A River In Writing

Understanding the River

Understanding the river is like deciphering nature’s ancient poetry, written in the fluid dance of currents and the rhythmic song of water against stone.

It’s more than a mere geographical entity; it’s a living, breathing storyteller, weaving tales of time and transformation.

To comprehend the river is to unlock the secrets of its meandering journey, tracing the contours of its banks like the lines on an aged palm, each curve narrating a chapter of its history.

It is a symphony of liquid notes, a whispering oracle that reveals the eons it has witnessed. So, dive into the river’s embrace, let its essence seep into your senses, and unravel the enigmatic prose that flows within its ever-changing waters.

Understanding the river is an invitation to immerse yourself in the ceaseless narrative of nature, a journey where every ripple is a word, and every bend is a punctuation mark in the lyrical composition of existence.

Researching the specific river

Embarking on the journey to research a specific river is akin to opening a treasure chest filled with geological gems, historical artifacts, and ecological wonders.

This meticulous exploration is not merely about locating a body of water on a map; it’s a quest to unravel the river’s identity, tracing its sinuous path through time and terrain.

Delve into the geographical intricacies, where coordinates tell tales of landscapes shaped by nature’s artistry. Unearth historical footprints, discovering the river’s role in the chronicles of human civilization, from ancient civilizations to modern societies.

Navigate the depths of unique features, be they waterfalls cascading like liquid silk or meandering stretches that carve a serpentine narrative through valleys.

In researching a specific river, you embark on an intellectual adventure, peeling back layers of knowledge to reveal a rich tapestry woven by the intersection of water, land, and the human experience.

Sensory Imagery

Sensory imagery is the painter’s palette of words, a literary kaleidoscope that invites readers to not just see, but to taste the vibrant hues of a narrative, to hear the symphony of words, and to touch the textures woven into the fabric of a story.

It’s the art of crafting prose that transcends mere description, immersing the audience in a world where they can feel the crisp breeze on their skin, taste the tang of salt in the air, and hear the whispers of leaves in the moonlit stillness.

Sensory imagery isn’t just about sight; it’s a multisensory feast that transports the reader beyond the page and into the very heart of an author’s imagination.

It’s the difference between reading about a river and feeling the cool, refreshing embrace of its waters, a literary alchemy that transforms words into an immersive sensory symphony.

Visual Descriptions

Visual descriptions are the kaleidoscopic brushstrokes that bring a narrative canvas to life, inviting readers into a world painted with words.

It’s not merely about recounting what meets the eye; it’s an intricate dance of details that stitches together the visual tapestry of a scene.

The play of light and shadow, the myriad colors that dance across a landscape, and the intricate details that escape casual glances – visual descriptions encapsulate the essence of a place, freezing moments in time with the precision of a masterful artist’s stroke.

It’s the sparkle of sunlight on a river’s surface, the rustle of leaves caught in a breeze, and the panoramic sweep of a mountain vista that, when articulated, transport the reader into the very heart of the depicted scene.

Visual descriptions are the magic ink that transforms the mundane into the extraordinary, making the written word a portal to worlds where imagination and reality seamlessly converge.

How To Describe A River In Writing

Auditory Descriptions

Auditory descriptions compose the lyrical soundtrack of a narrative, weaving a tapestry of sound that resonates with readers on a visceral level.

Beyond the visual, they plunge into the unseen symphony of the environment, capturing the rustle of leaves in a gentle breeze, the rhythmic percussion of raindrops on a tin roof, or the harmonious chorus of birds greeting the dawn.

Auditory descriptions evoke emotions and memories, painting scenes with the sounds that define them. It’s the crackling of a bonfire, the distant hum of city life, or the serene silence of a snowfall.

Through carefully chosen words, auditory descriptions not only enrich the sensory experience but also serve as a conduit to the soul of a setting, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the rich, evocative soundscape of a story.

They transform written language into a symphony, where each word resonates like a note, creating a composition that lingers in the reader’s mind long after the last page is turned.

Utilizing Figurative Language

Utilizing figurative language in writing is akin to adding a dash of cosmic stardust to the ordinary alphabet. It’s the celestial ballet of metaphors and similes pirouetting across the page, turning prose into a constellation of vivid images that defy the gravitational pull of mundanity.

Metaphors are the warp and weft of storytelling, weaving the fabric of imagination, while similes are like the secret handshakes between words, forging unexpected connections.

Personification breathes life into the inanimate, making the moon a clandestine confidante and the wind a mischievous trickster.

Figurative language isn’t just a linguistic flourish; it’s a literary alchemy that transmutes words into a realm where the mundane becomes magical, and the ordinary is imbued with an extraordinary sparkle.

In the symphony of storytelling, figurative language is the crescendo that elevates prose to a celestial sonata, where every sentence is a constellation waiting to be discovered.

Metaphors and Similes

Metaphors and similes are the sorcerers of language, conjuring a spell that transforms the mundane into the extraordinary.

Metaphors are the hidden bridges between disparate worlds, seamlessly blending the tangible and the abstract, allowing readers to traverse from the known to the sublime.

They’re the poetic shortcuts that paint vivid landscapes with a single brushstroke, turning a simple raindrop into a liquid diamond or a sunset into a molten palette of dreams.

Similes, on the other hand, are the comparisons that twinkle like stars in the literary firmament, illuminating the text with their celestial glow.

Like metaphorical constellations, they guide readers through the vast expanse of imagination, making the unfamiliar feel like an old friend.

Together, metaphors and similes breathe life into language, infusing it with a poetic resonance that transcends the boundaries of mere description, and in doing so, they invite readers to dance on the tightrope between reality and reverie.

Personification

Personification is the literary enchantress, weaving the spell that animates the inanimate, bestowing the ordinary with an extraordinary pulse.

It is the art of breathing life into the lifeless, granting human qualities to the elements of nature or everyday objects.

When personification takes the stage, the wind becomes a mischievous whisperer, the sun a benevolent storyteller, and the mountains stoic guardians of ancient tales.

It transforms the mundane into the magical, allowing readers to see the world through the eyes of a benevolent creator, where even the smallest pebble might harbor secrets and the moon may be privy to silent confessions.

Personification transcends mere description; it is an alchemical process that infuses the narrative with a touch of the fantastical, making the reader not just a spectator but a participant in a whimsical dance between the tangible and the imaginative.

Describing Movement and Flow

Describing movement and flow in writing is like capturing the elusive choreography of nature’s ballet. It’s more than just words on a page; it’s a dance of sentences pirouetting through the air, capturing the essence of rivers that waltz over rocks and breezes that tango through the leaves.

The narrative becomes a river itself, flowing seamlessly, cascading down the paragraphs with the grace of a waterfall. The movement is not just about the physical; it’s the ebb and flow of emotions, the undulating rhythm of a story’s heartbeat.

It’s the fluidity of words that mimic the current, taking readers on a literary voyage where every sentence is a ripple and every paragraph a whirlpool of imagination.

Describing movement is the art of making words fluid, inviting readers to wade into the stream of prose and be swept away by the current of storytelling.

How To Describe A River In Writing

Conveying the speed and rhythm of the river

Conveying the speed and rhythm of the river is like transcribing the heartbeat of nature onto the parchment of language.

It’s an intricate dance, where words become the choreographers, orchestrating the lively tempo of the water’s journey.

The river, at times, moves with the urgency of a sprinting gazelle, its currents racing downstream in a fervent rush. Other moments unveil a more languid cadence, as if the river were savoring the poetic pauses between each ripple.

Describing the speed and rhythm becomes a symphony of adjectives and adverbs, as one tries to encapsulate the fluidity of the river’s movement.

It’s a poetic endeavor that requires the finesse of a conductor, aligning each phrase to the rhythm of the water’s melody, inviting readers to feel the pulse of the river’s timeless song.

Detailing changes in current and water dynamics

Detailing changes in current and water dynamics is akin to narrating the river’s own evolving biography, written in the nuanced language of its movements.

It’s a story of twists and turns, where the currents perform a ballet of metamorphosis, transforming from tranquil whispers to turbulent roars.

Describing the subtle shifts in water dynamics requires the precision of a cartographer, mapping the ebb and flow as the river meanders through the topography of its own narrative.

A sudden acceleration might echo the heartbeat of a storm, while a gentle eddy could mirror the reflective pauses in the passage of time.

It’s an art of observation that goes beyond the surface, delving into the depths where eddies become whispers of submerged secrets and rapids echo the spirited rebellion of the river against the constraints of the landscape.

Detailing these changes is an invitation for readers to embark on a journey through the ever-changing script of water, where every ripple pens a new chapter in the fluid story of nature.

Exploring the impact of weather on the river’s behavior

Exploring the impact of weather on the river’s behavior unveils the river’s dynamic dialogue with the atmospheric elements, as if it were a poetic dance partner in the ever-changing ballroom of nature.

Weather is the maestro orchestrating the river’s performance – a torrential downpour transforms the river into a roaring maestro, conducting a thunderous symphony as it swells and surges.

In contrast, the gentle touch of sunlight might coax the river into a languid ballet, its waters shimmering like liquid gold.

Frosty mornings may cloak the riverbanks in an ethereal silence, while gusty winds become the river’s enthusiastic partner, whisking away whispers from its surface.

It’s a symbiotic relationship where the river becomes the weather’s canvas, painting its emotional response across the landscape.

Exploring these meteorological nuances is to decipher the river’s atmospheric sonnet, where raindrops become stanzas and sunshine transforms into verses, etching a narrative that transcends the mere ephemerality of weather.

Addressing Seasonal Changes

Addressing seasonal changes in the life of a river is akin to witnessing a kaleidoscopic metamorphosis orchestrated by Mother Nature herself.

Each season arrives as a masterstroke, transforming the river’s character and scenery with a cinematic flair. In winter, the river dons a tranquil cloak of stillness, its waters hushed beneath a crystalline tapestry of ice, while spring brings a vibrant crescendo, awakening the river with the exuberance of new life and a symphony of melodic flows.

Summer sees the river assuming the role of a refreshing oasis, inviting sun-dappled adventures, while autumn paints the scene in a palette of fiery hues, the river mirroring the vibrant foliage in a breathtaking dance of reflection.

Addressing seasonal changes is akin to penning verses in a celestial diary, where each chapter is a poetic ode to the river’s perennial reinvention, echoing the harmonious cadence of time and the eternal rhythm of nature’s cyclical ballet.

How To Describe A River In Writing

Describing the river in different seasons

The river, a transient maestro of nature’s symphony, undergoes a captivating metamorphosis with each passing season.

In winter, the river surrenders to the frost’s embrace, transforming its liquid expanse into a silent tableau of ice sculptures, as if the very essence of its flow were suspended in a crystalline dream.

Spring breathes life back into its veins, a rebirth echoed in the babbling currents and the vibrant bloom that adorns its banks. Summer sees the river donning a robe of effervescent activity, its waters becoming a haven for sunlit reflections and playful ripples, inviting laughter and leisure along its shores.

As autumn paints the landscape with a kaleidoscope of hues, the river becomes a canvas, mirroring the fiery foliage with a reflective grace.

Each season is a chapter in the river’s cyclical narrative, a testimony to the profound connection between this aqueous storyteller and the ever-changing tapestry of the natural world.

Historical and Cultural Context

Navigating the historical and cultural currents that intertwine with a river is like embarking on an archaeological voyage where each ripple conceals a chapter of human civilization.

The river, more than a waterway, is a time-traveling bard, whispering tales of bygone eras along its serpentine course.

Its banks have witnessed the footprints of ancient civilizations, the echoes of battles lost and won, and the silent narratives of cultural rituals that have ebbed and flowed like its waters.

The river is not just a geographical entity; it’s a living museum where the sediment of history settles, and the echoes of diverse cultures resonate.

From the rituals performed on its shores to the bridges built to span its currents, the river is an archaeological text written in water, inviting intrepid explorers to decode the layers of human heritage etched into its banks and bed.

In understanding the historical and cultural context of a river, one becomes not just a reader of its stories but a custodian of the submerged narratives that shape its aquatic identity.

Crafting a Narrative

Crafting a narrative is akin to wielding a quill dipped in the ink of imagination, where each stroke becomes a ripple in the river of storytelling.

It’s not merely about stringing words together but about conjuring a world where sentences dance and paragraphs hum with the energy of a thousand tales waiting to be told.

Like a river carving its path through landscapes, a narrative meanders through the topography of characters, plot twists, and settings, sculpting a literary terrain that invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery.

The storyteller, akin to a river guide, directs the flow of words, creating currents of suspense, pools of emotion, and deltas of revelation.

Crafting a narrative is not just a literary endeavor; it’s a sacred act of world-building, where ink becomes the architect and words the bricks that construct realms where readers willingly drown and emerge forever changed.

Building a story around the river

Building a story around the river is like composing a symphony where the water is both the conductor and the protagonist.

The river becomes more than a backdrop; it evolves into a dynamic character, whispering its own secrets and shaping the destinies of those who dwell along its shores. The narrative flows and meanders, mirroring the undulating currents of the river itself.

Characters navigate its bends, face the rapids of challenges, and find solace in its tranquil pools. The river is not merely a setting but a narrative force, influencing the plot’s tempo with its seasonal changes, reflecting the characters’ emotional ebbs and flows.

It weaves itself into the very fabric of the story, becoming a living, breathing entity that propels the plot forward like a force of nature.

In building a story around the river, the writer becomes a navigator, steering through the narrative waters to unveil the secrets and stories hidden within its fluid embrace.

Editing and Refining

Editing and refining are the alchemical processes that transform raw literary ore into a gleaming narrative masterpiece.

It’s not a mere dissection of words; it’s a surgical art, where each incision breathes new life into the prose. Like a sculptor chiseling away excess stone to reveal the statue within, editing carves precision from the rough-hewn blocks of sentences.

It’s a dance of discernment, where unnecessary words are shed like autumn leaves, allowing the core story to emerge in its unadulterated brilliance.

Refining is the crucible in which ideas meld, sentences polish, and the narrative’s luster is brought to a high gloss.

It’s not just about fixing; it’s about elevating the manuscript to the realm of literary refinement.

In the crucible of editing, the story is not merely revised but reborn, emerging from the crucible with a shine that beckons readers like a beacon in the vast sea of written expression.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about How To Describe A River In Writing

How can i make my river descriptions more vivid and evocative.

Dive into sensory details – paint with words to capture the river’s visual, auditory, and tactile dimensions. Enrich your descriptions by incorporating the nuanced elements that make the scene come alive.

What role does figurative language play in describing a river?

Figurative language, like metaphors and similes, is the secret sauce. It transforms your descriptions from mundane to magical, creating imaginative connections that resonate with readers and bring the river to life in unexpected ways.

How do I convey the river’s changing dynamics over different seasons?

Each season is a character in the river’s story . Explore the dance between the river and the seasons, detailing the shifts in mood, color, and atmosphere. Use the changing backdrop to infuse your descriptions with depth and variety.

Why is it important to consider the historical and cultural context of a river?

A river is a silent witness to history. Weaving in historical and cultural elements adds layers to your narrative, connecting the river to the broader human experience and providing a richer backdrop for your descriptions.

How can I create a narrative around the river without it feeling forced?

Let the river be a character with agency. Allow it to influence the plot, characters, and emotions. Building a story around the river should feel natural, as if the water itself is guiding the course of your narrative.

What’s the significance of editing and refining when describing a river?

Editing is the refining process that polishes your prose into a literary gem. It’s about precision – chiseling away excess, streamlining sentences, and ensuring each word contributes to the river’s vivid portrayal. Refinement elevates your writing from good to extraordinary.

How can I balance vivid descriptions with concise writing?

Strike a balance between lush descriptions and concise language. Focus on the most impactful details that convey the essence of the river. Less can be more, allowing readers to engage their own imagination in filling in the gaps.

What’s the best way to ensure my river descriptions resonate emotionally with readers?

Infuse your descriptions with emotion. Connect the river to human experiences, making it a mirror for the reader’s feelings. Whether it’s serenity, awe, or nostalgia, evoke emotions that create a lasting impact.

Can you provide tips for crafting a compelling introduction to a river description?

Begin with an enticing hook that draws readers into the river’s world. Consider using vivid imagery, intriguing metaphors, or posing a thought-provoking question. The introduction sets the tone for the entire descriptive journey.

How can I receive constructive feedback on my river descriptions?

Join writing communities or workshops where you can share your work. Constructive feedback from peers can offer valuable insights and different perspectives, helping you refine and enhance your river descriptions.

In the art of describing a river in writing , the journey is as enriching as the destination. The words we choose to weave into the tapestry of rivers shape not just the scenery but the very essence of our narratives.

From the visual panoramas to the nuanced dance of currents, we’ve explored the tools that transform descriptions into immersive experiences.

As we conclude this exploration, remember that the river is not just a backdrop but a dynamic protagonist in the stories we tell.

The seasons, history, cultural context, and the river’s own narrative arc are threads in the literary fabric we create.

Editing and refining serve as the final brushstrokes, refining our prose into a masterpiece that resonates emotionally.

May your future descriptions of rivers flow with the vitality and grace of the waters they depict, inviting readers to embark on a journey where words become the vessel navigating the meanders of imagination.

Related Posts:

  • How To Write An Australian Accent (10 Best Ways You…
  • How To Describe Alcohol In Writing (10 Important Steps)
  • How To Improve Creative Writing (18 Effective Ways)
  • How To Write A Flashback In A Novel (10 Best Tips In 2024)
  • How To Describe A Portal In A Story (10 Important Tips)
  • How To Write A Confession Scenes (12 Best Tips)

Similar Posts

How To Improve Dissertation Writing (14 Important Tips)

How To Improve Dissertation Writing (14 Important Tips)

Embarking on the challenging journey of dissertation writing requires more than just academic prowess; it demands a strategic and refined approach to transform complex ideas into a coherent scholarly narrative. As a magnum opus of academic endeavors, a dissertation necessitates meticulous planning, effective time management, and a keen understanding of the nuances involved in each…

How To Describe The Wind In Writing (10 Important Steps)

How To Describe The Wind In Writing (10 Important Steps)

In the world of storytelling, the wind is not just a mere natural phenomenon; it is a character in its own right, a silent yet powerful force that weaves its way through the narrative, influencing the mood, characters, and atmosphere of a story. To describe the wind in writing is to embark on a delicate…

How To Describe A Dress In Writing (10 Best Tips)

How To Describe A Dress In Writing (10 Best Tips)

In the intricate tapestry of fashion literature, the art of describing a dress transcends the mere portrayal of fabric and design—it is a nuanced and evocative endeavor that invites readers to step into a world where words become threads weaving through the textures, colors, and contours of couture. Whether navigating the delicate nuances of fit…

How To Improve Literacy Writing Skills (14 Best Tips)

How To Improve Literacy Writing Skills (14 Best Tips)

Embarking on the journey to enhance literacy writing skills is akin to unlocking the doors to a world where words transcend mere symbols, becoming powerful conduits of expression and communication. In this intricate tapestry of language, the mastery of literacy writing is a skill that goes beyond the mechanical act of stringing sentences together; it…

How To Describe A Fire In Writing (11 Best Steps You Need To Know)

How To Describe A Fire In Writing (11 Best Steps You Need To Know)

In the realm of storytelling, the art of description is a potent alchemy, a magical brew that transports readers into the heart of a narrative’s world. Among the many elements that writers weave into their tapestry of words, fire stands as a captivating and elemental force. Describing fire in writing isn’t merely an exercise in…

How To Get Unstuck When Writing A Play (15 Best Tips)

How To Get Unstuck When Writing A Play (15 Best Tips)

Embarking on the journey of playwriting can be an exhilarating yet occasionally tumultuous adventure, where the creative mind may find itself entangled in the web of uncertainty and stagnation. The art of writing a play, with its multifaceted characters, intricate plots, and the delicate dance of dialogue, can sometimes present challenges that leave even the…

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

Helping writers become bestselling authors

Setting Description Entry: River

August 16, 2008 by BECCA PUGLISI

creative writing about river

Eddies, dripping branches, current, glossy, darting shapes, water striders, leaf-dappled, twisting flow, drag, silt, reeds, bowed willows, shadows, sparkling, mirror, bent grasses, carve, clash, boulders, ripples, carry, twigs, debris, gliding birds, minnows, fish, smooth stones, slime, weeds, ducklings, drifting, lazy, tepid, mud, churning flow, winding, clover…

Frothing, crashing, clash, splashing, chuckling, burbling, tumbling, rush, trickle, gurgle, roar, simmer, murmur, rumble, clash, glug, warble, thundering, musical, gushing, din, bird calls, chattering squirrels, buzzing flies or bees, animals scampering through nearby undergrowth

Algae-scented, briny, wet earth, dank, musty, reek, fetid, rank, fresh, clean, pungent, wildflowers, grass, clover, rotting deadfall or leaves

Cold, quenching, thirsty, numbing, tang, sip, sweet, bitter, mineral-rich, impure, oily, gulp, coppery, swig, sharp, fishy, brackish, tart, brassy, stale, sharp, bite

Silken, smooth rocks, slippery, wet, chill, shock, soak, icy, warm, simmering, gritty, ticklish, sleek, cool, fluid, caressing, soothing, pulling, strength, powerful, brisk, jolt, stun, numbing, nip, freezing

Helpful hints:

–The words you choose can convey atmosphere and mood.

Example 1 : As instructed in the stranger’s note, I waited at the end of Rogan’s Dock with only the moon above as company. Below me, the swollen spring waters churned against the pilings, fighting to escape into the flatland beyond the mountain. The boards beneath my feet groaned and I shifted uneasily. One misstep, and the darkness would swallow a man whole.

–Similes and metaphors create strong imagery when used sparingly.

Example 1 : Long after the sun set, the frothing current swept past, dark as molasses. (Simile)

Think beyond what a character sees, and provide a sensory feast for readers

creative writing about river

Setting is much more than just a backdrop, which is why choosing the right one and describing it well is so important. To help with this, we have expanded and integrated this thesaurus into our online library at One Stop For Writers . Each entry has been enhanced to include possible sources of conflict , people commonly found in these locales , and setting-specific notes and tips , and the collection itself has been augmented to include a whopping 230 entries—all of which have been cross-referenced with our other thesauruses for easy searchability. So if you’re interested in seeing a free sample of this powerful Setting Thesaurus, head on over and register at One Stop.

creative writing about river

On the other hand, if you prefer your references in book form, we’ve got you covered, too, because both books are now available for purchase in digital and print copies . In addition to the entries, each book contains instructional front matter to help you maximize your settings. With advice on topics like making your setting do double duty and using figurative language to bring them to life, these books offer ample information to help you maximize your settings and write them effectively.

BECCA PUGLISI

Becca Puglisi is an international speaker, writing coach, and bestselling author of The Emotion Thesaurus and its sequels. Her books are available in five languages, are sourced by US universities, and are used by novelists, screenwriters, editors, and psychologists around the world. She is passionate about learning and sharing her knowledge with others through her Writers Helping Writers blog and via One Stop For Writers —a powerhouse online library created to help writers elevate their storytelling.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)

Reader Interactions

' src=

November 11, 2014 at 8:30 pm

Any chance to get a raging river added to this? Perhaps a cross between a wild river, and rapids?

' src=

November 13, 2014 at 9:58 am

Hi, Dan! Unfortunately, we’re not adding any more entries to the online version of this thesaurus because we’re in the process of drafting the print version, which should be out in the spring (yay!). Right now, we don’t have plans for a Rapids entry; we’re trying to include a lot of different settings, and since we already have a river, a creek, and a waterfall, we probably won’t have room to add another river-related entry. But a wild river is a strong setting ripe with opportunities for conflict, so we’ll make sure to incorporate some wild river description into the River entry. Thanks so much for the suggestion!

' src=

August 16, 2008 at 9:56 am

Awesome! We’re trying to pick settings that should have a wide appeal–glad this one is useful to you.

August 16, 2008 at 9:29 am

OMG! I have five different rivers in my WIP. This is perfect for helping me think about distinguishing them! Thanks!

[…] Rivers […]

Privacy Overview

Open Rivers Journal - Rethinking Water, Place & Community

Writing the River

WTTR welcomes new river related meanings and links through creative writing.

By Leslie Thomas

What does the river say to you? This is the core question posed by Write to the River (WTTR), a creative writing project that I launched in partnership with the Twin Cities nonprofit Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) and photographer Tom Reiter, in spring 2017.

Writing is not just for the Robert Frosts of the world or for professional writers who see themselves as artists. We all can be writers capturing the truth of our own lives, with their pain, joys, grittiness and heroism, if we give ourselves a chance to trust our voice. Expressive writing can serve a wide variety of life-enhancing purposes. Fundamentally, when we put pen to paper, we have the opportunity to celebrate who we are and create a tangible product that surprises us with welcome new meanings and links. (Chavis 2011, 160)

WTTR is an open invitation, a call for all to engage with our river environment through story or poetic verse. No professional or river-related experience is necessary. All ages and writing styles are welcome, including short prose, formal verse or one’s own verse. It offers an opportunity to create, and a platform to share a river connection.

WTTR welcomes new river related meanings and links through creative writing.

WTTR welcomes new river related meanings and links through creative writing.

It is also substantially different from the rest of FMR’s work. Over its 25 years, FMR has grown to be recognized as a hardworking and strong force for good for the metro Mississippi. Annually, it attracts thousands of people (myself included) to speak up at the capitol in St. Paul, and get our hands dirty (literally) at events where we dig, pull, and plant for the river. So how does a creative project like this fit into such a robust action- and results-oriented organization? Better than we ever thought it would.

A Great River Story: Friends of the Mississippi River

In 1992, a roomful of people gathered to lay out the future of a new national park flowing through the heart of the metro Twin Cities, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area . (MNRRA).

At one of the first public meetings to create a management plan for the park, a few “river rats” looked around and felt a bit out of place. While people representing business and government interests were in attendance, there weren’t many like them: people who loved the river and were willing to speak on its behalf. That’s when Friends of the Mississippi River was born.

Officially incorporated in 1993, FMR has grown from a handful of founders to engage over 5,000 people annually as river advocates and volunteers—at community meetings, at the capitol, and in hands-on river protection and restoration projects. FMR headquarters has grown from a walk-in closet to a half-floor of a downtown St. Paul building with 19 staff in four departments: water quality, river corridor and land-use, land protection, and stewardship and public engagement.

Two deer swim in the river. The water is so deep that only their heads are visible.

Out for a swim: trees along the river improve water quality and wildlife habitat.

Over the years the organization has protected and restored thousands of acres of forest and prairie habitat,  reduced harmful pollutants , and protected our sense of identity as a river city by preserving beloved views, parks, and natural areas that connect our metro communities to the river. All the while, it continues to cultivate tomorrow’s river stewards, engaging over a thousand youth in river protection and education activities annually.

“But none of this work would be possible,” says Whitney Clark, now in his 21 st year as executive director of FMR, “if it weren’t for our collective affinity for the river.”

That affinity is fostered by personal and cultural connections. For Clark, it was fishing with his grandfather that strengthened his connection to nature. “During our shore lunches we listened to the waves lapping against the boat, observed the sunlight reflecting on the trees along the rocky shores. Being there with him, it was easy for me to love the natural world.” Today, Clark is proud to pass this value to the next generation, both via FMR and in his own family.

Perspective from sitting in a canoe over very still water. Trees on a small island are reflected in the water.

Paddling tranquil water: one of the many ways to connect with the Mississippi River.

One of the biggest overarching accomplishments, Clark notes, is of a different nature. “It is the large movement we created, elevating the profile and status of the Mississippi River in our area. Now, community members ask the question ‘Will it hurt the river?’ before proceeding.”  This is a significant change in the metro-wide conversation, a paradigm shift. And even though it isn’t one that we can put numbers to, that doesn’t mean it isn’t important. In fact, it may be FMR’s most important accomplishment in its 25 years.

“ FMR is about protecting the health and integrity of the Mississippi River system that we are each connected to in one way or another,” adds Clark. “Our collective affinity for the river serves as the scaffolding for all of FMR’s work; so providing a forum for people to celebrate the river and connect to one another is our core mission.”

Start by Planting Seeds

When I moved closer to the Mississippi River in 2013, I wanted to learn how I could help protect and connect to my new landscape. I found FMR online and signed up to receive their biweekly “Mississippi Messages.” Then I responded to a volunteer call for a native prairie seed-collecting event at Sand Coulee Scientific and Natural Area (SNA). “Previous seed collection is not required—all abilities and groups are welcome,” resonated with me.

Seed collecting with FMR at Sand Coulee SNA in Hastings, MN. Image courtesy of FMR Staff Photographer.

Seed collecting with FMR at Sand Coulee SNA in Hastings, MN. Image courtesy of FMR Staff Photographer.

I learned to identify several native plants and how to sustainably extract seeds for later planting. Renowned for its rare plant and animal species, Sand Coulee SNA offers a glimpse of what Minnesota looked like before 1850. Being there rekindled the memory of a poignant, historic diary entry I’d once read by a farmer in Lakeland, Minnesota.

June 24, 1854: The prairie is now a beautiful green interspersed with beautiful flowers in great abundance and variety. Some of these flowers must be preserved—not that they can ever be made any more beautiful or arranged with any better taste than now. But this great prairie flower garden as arranged by the hand of the Creator is now exposed to the plow and the lowing herds are already making their paths and selecting their shades and watering places and it is plain that the native beauty must give way to the artificial.

—  from the diary of Mitchell Jackson. (Blegen 1939)

After that, I signed up to become a River Guardian with FMR and receive action alerts for the river. What began as an online search for connection lead to me becoming part of a large volunteer community doing meaningful environmental work. It may sound hokey to some, but there was and is a certain magic in that transformation, one that continues to inspire me. I began to write about the river in my creative work, which includes poetry, and wished for a sense of community around the more creative and personal aspects of river engagement as well. Surely there were others who felt the same?

FMR was a natural place for me to inquire about partnering on a creative writing project devoted to the river, and I’m certain a seed was planted inside me that day at Sand Coulee SNA.

A Leap of Faith

At our first meeting, FMR Communication Manager Sue Rich acknowledged that it was my “pleasant persistence” that got the idea through the door. We laughed as we considered that this is how many projects likely begin, with a nudging person peddling their project, insistent on its potential merit. As we talked, my initial offering—a metro-wide poetry contest and anthology—evolved into something ongoing and beneficial to FMR’s mission. Writing judges were nixed in favor of approachability and inclusion; it would be online and we’d make it as open as we could with the resources at hand.

But would anyone submit creative writing without a prize or the prestige of rising above the competition? Both storylines—the importance of persistence and faith—were familiar and fundamental to FMR. And with that, we knew we had to move forward.

WTTR: How it Works

The Mississippi River as it flows through the Twin Cities is not one but three rivers. It enters the metro as a prairie river with banks instead of bluffs. Then, as it roars over St. Anthony Falls in downtown Minneapolis, it becomes a gorge river wending its way through the steep-sided bluffs in south Minneapolis and western St. Paul. Finally, as it joins the Minnesota River near Fort Snelling, it relaxes and widens to become a floodplain river.

Which river would people focus on for Write to the River? Its changing nature as well as the number of visiting spots could make it a challenge to face the dreaded blank page. We needed to give people a common starting point.

You could call it a form of Ekphrastic creative writing, a fancy word for writing inspired by other works of art, including paintings, photographs, or statues. Writers “interpret, inhabit, confront, and speak to their subjects.” No two perceptions will be the same; every writer will see something unique from their own experiences.

A shot of hidden falls. The water seems to be wispy, and moving very fast.

Hidden Falls showcases the varied river landscape.

WTTR contributors are not limited to writing to the image provided; it is offered as a starting point to inspire writing and showcase scenes along the river.

For each season, one image is chosen by a volunteer team of writers and river enthusiasts. The image is selected from 10 photos provided by FMR volunteer photographer Tom Reiter, based on its broad inspirational and emotive qualities to serve as a writing prompt. Reiter’s stunning photographs capture different scenes, elements, and activities along the Upper Mississippi River basin throughout the year.

It is often the feeling of being in a place that prompts a photographer to capture an image. Reiter explains, “When I click the camera’s shutter, it’s often because something I’m seeing invokes certain feelings within me. If a picture could have that effect on me, I wondered if it would produce a similar reaction in others?”

A brief caption is provided with each image, along with the location for anyone who would like to visit—we aim for just enough information to prompt participation, without overly influencing the writing direction. To get creative juices flowing, we ask readers and potential contributors a few leading questions: What feelings does the photo evoke? Does it remind you of a past experience? Can you imagine walking here? What sounds, smells and tastes might you experience?

WTTR summer 2017 submission 'Lonesome whistle' over the Mississippi River at Hastings, MN, near several FMR habitat restoration and Vermillion Stewards volunteer sites. The silhouettes of three train cars appear on a bridge crossing the river.

WTTR summer 2017 submission “Lonesome whistle” over the Mississippi River at Hastings, MN, near several FMR habitat restoration and Vermillion Stewards volunteer sites.

In addition to appearing in each “Mississippi Messages,” the image and invitation to submit a writing piece are shared on FMR’s web and social media sites and with local libraries, bookstores, and with colleagues, friends, and family. Participants are given approximately 6 weeks to reflect on the image, write their piece and send it to the project email. After the submission period closes, writing pieces are in turn featured on the FMR website, and the link to the online issue is distributed through the same channels for their readership to enjoy.

Tom, Whitney, Sue, and I have all been pleasantly surprised by the number of people who responded, sharing their personal river stories. And in keeping with the spirit of Ekphrastic writing, everyone has seen something different in the featured photo.

The writing reflects diversity of voice and ways the river is appreciated—as a meaningful constant, an important connection to the past and natural world, and source of healing, inspiration, and work. It includes the gripping tales of a retired towboat captain’s experiences on the Lois E , a heartfelt story of a busy Minneapolis nurse who finds reprieve living on a houseboat, poignant poems of Native American ancestral river links, and inspiring memoir.

Below are the photographic image and caption prompts offered during WTTR’s first year, some of the writing we received in response, and thoughts from the writers on their involvement with the project. To see all of the writing, please visit the site .

Year One: WTTR Creative Writing Sampler

Winter 2017-18 submission prompt.

The sun sets upon St. Paul, MN from the beloved Indian Mounds Park bluff top view.

The sun sets upon St. Paul, MN from the beloved  Indian Mounds Park  bluff top view.

TAKING TIME By Jim Larson

The sun has done its best all day to turn the ice back to water but the River won’t have it.

The River knows to rest this time of year; no tugs, no barges, no kayaks. The empty trees all have the same idea.

Even the buildings have their eyes closed. Time to put this day back with all the others.

Time to gather up a few friends at a quiet table.  Get some talk flowing about what keeps you warm below the surface.

Interview with Jim Larson

LT: I learned you write poetry often. Is there something about WTTR that inspired you in a different way?

Jim : The thing that caught my fancy was the title of the whole project, “Write to the River.” It did not say, “Write about the River.” So it seemed appropriate to write about a photo, but to write to the river.

LT: Your poem gives meaningful voice to different elements within the photo. Can you share more about that?

Jim : This was an invitation to invest the river with a certain agency, maybe even a sense of character. And while we’re at it, why not do the same with the other elements in the photo—the sun, the trees, the buildings? The hope was to animate each thing and set them into some sort of relationship without getting all Walt Disney about it.

LT: How can creative writing expand awareness and appreciation of the river?

Jim : Any audience enjoys hearing stories about characters and their relationships. The poem, however briefly, attempts to provide that. The true completion of the piece is accomplished in the minds of the audience as they follow along and add personal associations from their own imaginations.

Step Outside By Christine Yaeger

Don’t lament. The tomb of concrete spreadsheets will rake your soul, but the barren tracks will be uprooted into flourishing.

Step outside. The light will cascade off of ice crystals as the flame subsides its quest, vanquished yet unconquered.

Listen. Whispering grass underneath the shadowed limbs sunken roots, deep and abiding.

Rejoice. The thaw will awaken the unseen miracles carrying messages of hope into another day.

Interview with Christine Yaeger

LT: I learned you work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Can you tell me how you became involved in this field?

Christine : I knew I wanted to pursue a career in natural resources after taking a college course in environmental studies. I had interest in our collective dependence on natural resources, and how it brings our values into focus. Through my studies I gained a different appreciation, learning Latin names and how resources like timber are used in industry. I worked at several entities on water quality sampling, agriculture grants, and data coordination, before landing at the DNR.

LT: What can you tell me about your experience with WTTR?

Christine :  I heard about WTTR through the FMR newsletter. I appreciate the important work FMR does for water and people, and the invitation to submit a creative writing piece. I like the mission-driven nature of my work at the DNR, which involves strategic planning. WTTR offers a different opportunity, applying an artistic response to a river photograph. I was inspired by the evocative light within the image.

LT: Can projects like WTTR offer something meaningful for those doing environmental work?

Christine : WTTR is an opportunity for creative ideas to simmer and become a story or poem, and to read other river writing. Sitting alone to reflect can help to recharge from the layers and fast pace of life, as well any discouraging news, and be inspired afresh.

Fall 2017 Submission Prompt

A paddleboat passenger enjoying the Big River and St. Paul’s iconic High Bridge.

A paddleboat passenger enjoying the Big River and St. Paul’s iconic High Bridge.

Empress by Linda Moua

At any given moment I feel as though I am guest on her flowing body At this very moment She provides passage to spy on carefully hidden neighbors

At any given moment I could fall through her chilly surface and suffer an abrupt shock At this very moment She can only feel the towing of my paddles left to right

At any given moment I look up to her thicket of verdant friends to find inner peace At this very moment She has craftily coaxed me to silence as I slip into awe

At any given moment I see that I am only a small explorer in her noble domain Because at this very moment She has painted me a self- portrait of who she is and why she is mighty

Interview with Linda Moua

LT: I learned you work with FMR. What do you do for them?

Linda : I work part-time as FMR’s development and advocacy assistant, working in our database, doing administrative work, and occasionally assisting at off-site public events.

LT: Do you recall what inspired you to get involved in river work?

Linda:  I’ve always tried to be environmentally conscious but my relationship with FMR transpired because I was attracted to the people who worked there, and the dedication they were known for having toward their mission.

LT: Is there one particular challenge pertaining to your work?

Linda : As someone whose childhood time outside meant pulling weeds and watering endless rows of seeds more so than hiking and swimming, I have learned that “spending time outdoors” means different things to different people, and that experiencing fun and engaging activities outdoors should happen early on. Growing up in a large, low-income and recently immigrated household, there wasn’t a lot of environmentally related outings my family took, other than going to the farm. Eventually my neighborhood community started collaborating with outreach programs to take us kids on hiking trails, beaches, and other activities. I’m grateful for those experiences, but know it hasn’t always been easy to establish or launch cross-cultural connections. That said, I’m proud of FMR’s efforts to be mindful and inclusive in youth engagement programs, because I know how memories like those can shape one’s outlook about experiencing nature.

LT: Is there anything you would like to share about writing to the river?

Linda : I loved that I was able to combine my appreciation for the river while exercising my poetry skills! I don’t consider myself an avid partaker of water-related activities but have always enjoyed time spent leisurely walking alongside the river or learning about its different eco-systems. Also, reading the work from other contributors showed me that spending time with nature can unexpectedly inspire, humor, or heal us.

LT: Your poem is so poignant, expressing appreciation for the river. Are there any ways the writing of it spilled over into your work?

Linda: For me, writing this poem further attested to the river’s beauty and resilience and why people connect with FMR to help protect and restore it. It also strengthens my appreciation for the projects we do and the staff I get to work with.

LT: Are there any ways your work informs your creative writing?

Linda: While writing this poem I tapped into a memory of our FMR staff canoeing trip last fall. After much time spent worrying about capsizing, I finally started feeling those moments of unclouded reflection as I paddled down the river. My poem speaks to the river’s daunting yet inspiring presence because that’s what I felt that day. The emotions were easy to evoke but it took time to think through how I wanted to portray those feelings. Using techniques I’d learned in my writing courses, I decided to describe them via a poetic homage.

Spring 2017 Submission Prompt

'Morning Color' at Pine Bend Bluffs SNA in Inver Grove Heights, MN one of FMR’s most popular protection and restoration sites. The sun rises over the river, causing the sky to be painted with a variety of oranges and pinks.

“Morning Color” at Pine Bend Bluffs SNA in Inver Grove Heights, MN one of FMR’s most popular protection and restoration sites.

Untitled by Michael Daugherty

A place where my ancestors speak, but there is no one left to listen. Hush waters whisper to our souls to remind us of what we’re missing.

I want to stop and breathe in deeply and try to smell the smoke of their fires. I want to hear their songs in the creaking branches, hoping that it will inspire me to remember my blood.

O whisper to me the inspiriting beauty of life that captivated my ancestors so that they prayed and gave thanks!

Oh why can’t I see the smoke rising above the trees.

Interview with Michael Daugherty

LT: Your moving poem speaks to ancestral ties to the river. Can you share a little about yourself?

Michae l: I grew up in Quapaw, Oklahoma, where I graduated high school in 2004. Today I live in Neosho, Missouri, with my wife Amy and my son Eli. I am an enrolled member of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma.

LT: Is there anything you’d like to share about your WTTR experience?

Michael : I like writing poetry, but don’t share it too often. I’m an introvert and with no formal education in creative writing, very self-conscious when it comes to my writing. When I first saw the photo of the sunrise over the Mississippi, I was in awe of how beautiful it was. The first image that came to mind was seeing smoke rising above the trees. I wondered if Indigenous people, especially my ancestors, had ever camped or lived in that area, or somewhere along the Mississippi River. I could see it. I wanted to smell that smoke. Unfortunately, there was no smoke and any sign of Indigenous people living there would most likely be gone. The poem came to me pretty easy, though it took me a day and a half of reading the poem over and over again before I finally submitted it. I’m glad I did. I was very excited to see it on the website. I’m very proud of it and extremely thankful for the opportunity.

LT: Is there a river photographic image you can suggest for our project?

Michael : I can’t think of an image, but hope this project continues. The stories people share about those places have their own vision, knowledge, and love for the water and land that can open our eyes to a different way of how we look at the earth. I think it’s good to share with each other our love for the earth. There is a deeper understanding to be gained from each other. The poetry and prose I’ve read on the website are amazing and touching.

LT: Can you share anything that speaks to the power of story?

Michael: I believe storytelling is an important part of any culture. Stories can open minds, inspire, and heal. A single story can plant love inside the hearts of children for a world that can seem scary. A story can teach and inspire people to care for the earth and for each other. Stories tell us who we are, who we were, where we come from, and where we can go. When it comes to our future, our children, nothing is more important than an inspiring story to help open their minds to alternate paths in life, rather than a single path that society demands they take. Our lands, our air, our water—they don’t survive unless we can tell a child a story that teaches them the importance of those sacred elements. Stories have to live on in our children to pass on to our grandchildren. That’s how we change the world.

The River Story Map

In Spring 2017, I was profoundly moved by one Write to the River submission in particular, a letter to the river from Michael Bischoff. In it, Michael thanks the river for the healing role it continues to play in his life with terminal brain cancer.

Dear Mississippi River,

You are family to me, so you probably know my story already, but I’m writing to express my love and gratitude for you and all those who have cared for you, and loved you, as I do.

I found out a year and a half ago that I have an aggressive kind of brain cancer. We tried chemo, but it didn’t work. The cancer grew while I was taking the chemo. We tried a new experimental treatment, but yesterday my doctor told me that treatment was ending because it hadn’t produced enough results. So, I’ve turned to you, dear river, as my primary healer. A year ago, I made a commitment to myself and you, that I would come slowly walk and sit by your banks every day. I committed to receiving the healing, wisdom, and grace you wanted to offer. You’ve been my most faithful and generous healer. I trust you, and I will be faithful to you.

This week you guided the great blue herons to an island in the middle of your waters, close to my house. I sit at your edge and watch the herons flirt and fight in their nests, above your patient waters. My wingspan is the same as the herons. As they stretch their wings, I hold out my arms, gliding with them over your waters. I want to share their intimacy with you, flying so close to you, getting to know your length.

You’ve been so generous with me, nourishing me, washing away cancer and anxiety. If I believed medical statistics guided my body, my life would be over tomorrow. But I know that your water fills and guides my body more than medical statistics. I know that I am a small part of your watershed, and that after my body stops breathing, I will still be a part of your wholeness.

Today, and every day, I will sit at your side, watching the ice melt into your wholeness, hearing the woodpeckers knock pieces of the trees down closer to you. As my body declines, may I also fall into your wholeness, resting in the grace you carry across this continent that we call home.

— Michael Bischoff

Michael Bischoff reflects near the river’s edge.

Michael Bischoff reflects near the river’s edge.

Not long after, Michael and I were sitting at a table discussing his idea for another new project: The River Story Map. While it can occasionally overlap with WTTR, the River Story Map aims to capture and share personal river stories tied to the specific place along the river connected to their experience.

The River Story Map launched in January 2018, featuring 25-plus stories of connection to the river in honor of FMR’s silver year. These honest and personal reflections portray the river as a source of intrigue and adventure, a beloved date night venue, and even an unlikely partner in tales of loss and healing.

As the map continues to grow, we expect word about it to circulate more as well. Michael asked me to be sure to let Open Rivers readers know that we welcome everyone to add an image and story about a place along the river that is meaningful to them.

The Power of Sharing Creative Writing

I often think of WTTR unfolding as dendritic branches from Tom Reiter’s lens, to the writer’s creation, to the reader’s mind. Like seed collecting in a prairie, a sense of community develops around contributing to something meaningful while sharing river interpretations.

“The Mississippi River is an incredibly valuable natural asset,” says photographer Reiter. “Those who take the time to explore its wonder are richly rewarded with its beauty, history and power. It’s those feelings that people enjoy sharing with others and WTTR provides the forum.”

While the River Story Map has afforded greater opportunity to connect to the river locally, WTTR has found itself expanding across state and even international lines. Writer Barbara DeCoursey Roy lives in St. Louis, but assists with WTTR photo selection. She also contributed a thought-provoking submission to the winter 2017 prompt about the river’s power as a connective force during divisive times:

Great River By Barbara DeCoursey Roy

The river doesn’t see color or division. Red or blue states merely states of being—sundown trending garnet,

but turning midnight blue just before dawn cleanses muddy water, washing away the sins of the fathers.

One indivisible.  Holy water, the Black Robe rode; bloody water, Grant’s ironclads trolled. Hosting both beaver and trapper.

Oasis for Red on their trail of tears; a Red Sea for Blacks hankering for the warmth of other suns.

Strife-roiled, yet rolling.  On.  Unconstrained by armies of the dead.   Breaking boundaries imposed by paltry dreams, feeding underground

streams, breaching the banks of imagination. A mighty chorus of voices singing “Mni Wiconi.” Water is Life.  Colorless, fluid, never tame.

DeCoursey Roy shared the edition in which her poem was featured on Facebook and a dozen of her international poet friends posted congratulations or shared the link. “Great poems, like the river, serve as containers to hold the tension of opposites. I believe in the power of writing to forge connections among diverse groups of people. I believe the love of our country’s great natural resources has the same power, if we harness it,” says DeCoursey Roy.

WTTR Spring 2018 image. Our Twin Cities river corridor is part of an internationally significant flyway that provides vital resting places and food for both resident and migrating birds.

WTTR Spring 2018 image. Our Twin Cities river corridor is part of an internationally significant flyway that provides vital resting places and food for both resident and migrating birds.

Impact: Our Collective Affinity

So far, roughly 3,300 people have visited Write to the River online , most spend a long time on the page, with roughly two-thirds of them returning. And while we don’t request demographic information, we can say there has been a diverse mix of backgrounds, including some identifying as Native American and some as Hmong. Experience levels on the river vary from people frightened of being on the water to seasoned river pilots.

But how do you quantify the impact of a poem or a creative writing project? Numbers can be illusory or, when they are available, misleading. Webpage hits can’t capture poems shared on social media or printed and hung in an office cubicle. And while we can point to a rise in the number of WTTR readers, as well as River Guardians and members, this is little more than correlation. We know that some WTTR participants (even ones who submit works that could be considered politically charged) prefer to remain solely connected to the creative writing side of things. But we also know that many advocates and environmentalists delight in the opportunity to reconnect to the passion that underlies their work.

“WTTR is a reminder of the heart connection many of us have as river advocates, but don’t always get the chance to express while working in policy or natural resource science,” says FMR director Clark. “It’s all important; the work of volunteers, organizations, elected officials, scientists, etc., and based on a shared underlying foundation. WTTR is an opportunity to tap into that deeper foundation of place and create a confluence of ideas. ”

  As we see both WTTR and the River Story Map circulated among not only traditional writing circles but fellow water organizations, watershed districts, and other agencies, and as the writing continues to flow in, we are honored to provide a forum to strengthen our connection to the river, to refuel, and recharge. We also can’t help but wonder if we created a niche no one knew needed to be filled.

River ‘concrete’ poem by Christine Bronk from Fall 2017 Write to the River. Different words of the poem appear in different colors and are meant to represent rocks, boats, and the flowing water.

River ‘concrete’ poem by Christine Bronk from Fall 2017 Write to the River.

As part of the celebration of FMR’s 25 th anniversary, a special exhibit of Write to the River took place July 3-29 at the Wabasha Brewing Company near the river in St. Paul. Visitors stopped by for a pint, a photo, and a poem or story to honor FMR’s 25 years of protecting, restoring and enhancing the river.

For questions about Write to the River project, contact Leslie Thomas at [email protected] . To learn more about FMR, Write to the River, and the River Story Map, link to: https://fmr.org ,  https://fmr.org/write-to-the-river , and  https://fmr.org/river-stories-map .

All images courtesy of Tom Reiter, unless otherwise stated. Special thanks to FMR Communications Manager Sue Rich, who contributed to this article.

Blegen, T. C. 1939. Minnesota Farmers Diaries. St. Paul: The Minnesota Historical Society .

Chavis, Geri Giebel. 2011. Poetry and Story Therapy: The Healing Power of Creative Expression. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Recommended Citation

Thomas, Leslie. 2018. “Writing the River.”  Open Rivers: Rethinking Water, Place & Community,  no. 11.  https://openrivers.lib.umn.edu/article/writing-the-river/ .

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.24926/2471190X.4672

Download PDF of Writing the River by Leslie Thomas.

Share this:

  • About the Author(s)

[email protected]

612-626-5054

 alt=

Search for creative inspiration

19,890 quotes, descriptions and writing prompts, 4,964 themes

River - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing

  • muddy river
  • river in a forest
  • stepping stones
  • water cycle
White lace amid the evergreens comes the happy river.
In echo to the song of the sky, the river sings soulful blues.
The river is mother to this land and the magic of our good dreams, our hopes.
The river is the sanctuary of my dreams, the ones that love to swim in rainbow shoals.
In these clear river waters exists our honest truths, flowing amid this valley, quenching earth and kin.
The river is a symbol of how far we've come. What was once polluted and dead now teams with the fish we have restored to it. The many rustic hues of the submerged pebbles are more priceless than any jewel. Just to watch the ducklings is a salve to my mind and a reminder to us all that we must protect what we have, cherish it. Everyone did things they weren't proud of in the struggles, we did what we had to do to survive. Now we pray for forgiveness and devote our lives to the service of God and the protection of His earth and the life He bestows. Now everyone is a Guardian, we are just raised that way.

Sign in or sign up for Descriptionar i

Sign up for descriptionar i, recover your descriptionar i password.

Keep track of your favorite writers on Descriptionari

We won't spam your account. Set your permissions during sign up or at any time afterward.

Nicholas C. Rossis

Nicholas C. Rossis

dream-protecting author

Glen, Stream, River: 58 Words to Describe Bodies of Water

Nov 6, 2016 | Writing

Electra and Nicholas | From the blog of Nicholas C. Rossis, author of science fiction, the Pearseus epic fantasy series and children's books

Hard to believe it’s already been over 20 years

For my 25th birthday, our good friend Mike took Electra and me for hill-climbing to the McDonalds stronghold outside of Edinburgh. On our way there, we passed two streams, which Mike identified as Glen Doom and Glen Sorrow .

Their charming names notwithstanding, I wondered what the difference between a glen and a stream is. Some 20 years later, I finally have my answer, courtesy of Meg Neal of Atlas Obscura . who has compiled 58 different ways of describing bodies of water,

Size Matters: Starting Small

As Meg explains, the distinction between the various terms is usually defined by size. As the old adage goes:

you can step over a brook, jump over a creek, wade across a stream and swim across a river.

To describe a small stream , you might use any of the following:

  • A stream (#1) tends to be the generic term for flowing water; a
  • a river (#2) is the largest, while a
  • a creek (#3) is a small stream and
  • a brook (#4) is even smaller and often babbling.
  • Beyond that, small streams can be described as a rivulet (#5, a very small stream or baby stream),
  • a rill (#6, a very small brook or rivulet),
  • a beck (#7, yet another name for small stream),
  • a kill (#8, an old Dutch term in colonial New York for creek or stream),
  • a streamlet (#9, yep, a small stream,),
  • a runnel , also called runlet, run, rundle or rindle (#10, again, a small stream or brook or rivulet),
  • a brooklet (#11, a small brook),
  • a bourn (#12, a small stream, particularly one that flows intermittently or seasonally),
  • a beck (#13, a small river or synonym for stream or brook),
  • a crick (#14, a variation in the pronunciation of creek in parts of the U.S.),
  • a ghyll (#15, a narrow stream or rivulet, or a ravine through which through small stream flows), and
  • a syke or sike (#16, another Old English term for small stream, especially one that is dry in summer).

A Larger Stream

River | From the blog of Nicholas C. Rossis, author of science fiction, the Pearseus epic fantasy series and children's books

Image: freeimages.com

What about a large stream ?

  • In Scotland and England, that’s sometimes called a burn (#17).
  • A spring (#18) is when water flows up from under the ground to the surface.
  • A bayou (#19) is very slow moving water, generally a tributary of a lake or river that is sluggish and marshy and filled with vegetation.
  • A tributary (#20) for that matter is any stream that flows into a larger main stream or river, while
  • a distributary (#21) is the opposite: a stream that branches off from the main river and flows away from it.
  • A meander (#22) is just what it sounds like, a turn or bend in a winding river.
  • A freshet (#23) is a sudden flow of freshwater from rapid heavy rain or melting snow after a spring thaw. (It can also mean the place where a river or stream empties into the ocean, combining freshwater into salt water.)
  • In the same realm, an estuary (#24) is where a river empties into the sea—the place where the mouth of the river meets out the ocean tide.
  • And the headwaters (#25) is the source, the very beginning of a river or stream.

Surrounded by Land

Bay | From the blog of Nicholas C. Rossis, author of science fiction, the Pearseus epic fantasy series and children's books

There is sweeping category of bodies of water that are either partially or entirely surrounded by land. The former is often found in coastal areas where the shoreline curves in, like a long broad indentation, so the sea is partially surrounded by land but with a wide mouth connected to the open ocean.

  • A gulf (#26) is the largest of these broad inlets, and tends to have a narrow mouth opening to the sea.
  • Smaller than a gulf is a bay (#27) which is also largely landlocked but with a wider mouth. Smaller still we call a
  • Smaller still we call a cove (#28), a small recess or indent in the shoreline that forms a sheltered nook with a narrow entrance.
  • A cove will have just a narrowing opening to the sea, while a bight (#29) is a wide indent of the shore, like a bay but smaller and broader—these bights were historically a perfect safe harbor for pirates.
  • Speaking of harbors (#30) these are defined as any area of water where ships can anchor and be sheltered from the rough waters and winds of the open ocean.
  • That’s slightly different than a port (#31), which are specifically defined as any geographical area where ships are loaded and unloaded. In a similar vein, a sheltered body of water near the shore but slightly outside the enclosed harbor is sometimes called
  • a roadstead or roads (#32). Here, ships anchor while they wait to enter the port.
  • We all know the common term for a large body of water surrounded by land on all sides; that would be a lake (#33).
  • A pond (#34) is just a smaller version, and often formed artificially.
  • A particularly shallow but broad sheet of standing water is sometimes referred to as a mere (#35), particularly in Old English dialects or literature.
  • Even smaller and shallower is a puddle (#36), typically consisting of dirty rainwater.
  • On the flip side, a deep body of still freshwater forms a pool (#37).
  • And a tarn (#38) is a small pool or lake found in the mountains, sometimes with steep banks formed by a glacier.
  • Things get interesting when the body of water is almost entirely surrounded by land. An oxbow lake (#39) is formed when a wide bend in a river is eventually cut off from the main stream entirely by erosion and becomes a free-standing pool of water. It’s named for its characteristic U-shaped curve, resembling an oxbow.
  • A lake or inlet of the sea that is nearly landlocked is sometimes—primary in Scotland—called a loch (#40).

Where the Sea Projects Inland

Fjord | From the blog of Nicholas C. Rossis, author of science fiction, the Pearseus epic fantasy series and children's books

The Geiranger Fjord. Image: freeimages.com

  • also called an arm of the sea or sea arm (#42).
  • A firth (#43) a regional word used in Scotland, is similar in that it’s a narrow inlet of the sea, or a large sea bay, or long arm of the sea.
  • A fjord (#44) is a long, narrow inlet flanked by steep cliffs on three sides and is connected to the sea. It’s formed when a glacier cuts a U-shaped valley below sea level that fills with sea when the glacier retreats. They’re common along the Norwegian coast, an elongated arm of the sea that’s longer than it is wide.
  • A sound (#45) is an ocean inlet even larger than a bay and wider than a fjord—specifically a part of the ocean between two bodies of land, like a wide inlet parallel to the coastline flanked by a nearby island.
  • A channel (#46) is also constrained on two sides by banks, but is specifically a bed of water that joins two larger bodies of water.
  • A strait (#47) is similar to a channel only narrower.
  • A lagoon (#48) is a shallow elongated body of water separated form a larger body of water by a sandbank, coral reef or other barrier, while
  • a barachois (#49) is a coastal lagoon separation by the ocean by a sand bar that may periodically get filled with salt water when the tide is high.
  • There are some aquatic terms that are a bit more unusual. Before becoming a surfwear company, a  billabong (#50) defined where a river changes course and creates an isolated stagnant pool of backwater behind where the former branch dead ends.
  • A kettle (#51) in addition to boiling water for tea, is a sort of pothole formed from retreating glaciers or draining floods, hollowed out when buried blocks of glacier ice melts.
  • A narrows (#52) is a narrow water passes where a strait or river passes through a vertical bed of hard rock.
  • A lee (#53) can refer to as a natural body of running water flowing under the earth (though more commonly means the sheltered side of a ship or other object facing away from the wind).
  • A canal (#54) is an artificial waterway meant for travel, usually connecting two other water bodies for ships to navigate.
  • A shoal (#55) is a place where the sea, river or another body of water is shallow but the submerged sandbank is exposed at low tide.
  • An oasis (#56) is a fertile spot in the desert where water comes from an underground spring.
  • Finally, though they’re often used interchangeably, there’s a linguistic difference between the ocean and sea. An ocean (#57) is the largest body of water there is, divided into five geographic bodies.
  • Seas (#58) are generally parts of these oceans, located where the ocean and land meet. Used in the singular, however, “the sea” is used to mean the continuous body of salt water that covers most of the Earth’s surface—an interconnected global ocean blanketing the planet.

You can check out the complete post in Atlas Obscura .

Tweeted from the blog of fantasy, science fiction and children

Latest Release: A Heaven for Toasters

Detective Mika Pensive has a new partner. He's hot. Smart. Funny. And an android.

A Heaven for Toasters, only $2.99 or FREE with Kindle Unlimited.

Having trouble seeing this post or reblogging? Just go to my basic-format blog .

Twitter

14 Comments

dgkaye

Forget the thesaurus. I’ll just jump over to your blog when I’m stuck for a word. 🙂

Nicholas C. Rossis

Ha ha – that’s the nicest thing anyone’s ever said about my blog 😀

Although I find that hard to believe, thank you. 🙂

Giovannoni Claudine

It is amazing how many nouns you may use to decorate a story… in fact, it is quite trivial using only a couple of words when you have at your disposition a good choice. I myself always have some difficulties when I have to pick the right choice for the correct translation (from italian to english); you can’t do that using a translator… but need to go to a good vocabulary! I will mark this page for future use… thank you Nicholas :-)c

A pleasure! I’m thrilled that you found it useful 🙂

D. Wallace Peach

This is awesome for us word collectors, Nicholas. A number of new ones. It’s going in my word notebook 🙂

Yay! I’m so glad to hear that 😀

Joy Pixley

Very useful resource, to see them all defined in reference to each other; it’s hard to get that sense of comparison when looking at a dictionary. Thanks for sharing!

How true! Thanks for reading 🙂

Charles Yallowitz

Cool list. Amazing how many words are there because of one or two differences. Why are the places called Glen Doom and Glen Sorrow?

Probably because of the notorious Glencoe massacre that took place in the nearby Inveraray Castle (that might even be the inspiration behind the GoT’s infamous Red Wedding).

Check out https://www.scotlandnow.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heritage/reputation-clan-campbell-sealed-after-6980632 for the details.

That would do it.

beetleypete

Great advice, and essential tips too. Saves me being stuck with, “They crossed the water in front of them.”! Best wishes, Pete.

Lol – a problem that’s more common than you might expect 😀

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

  • Writing Links in the 3s and 5…11/7/16 – Where Genres Collide - […] https://nicholasrossis.me/2016/11/06/glen-stream-river-58-words-to-describe-bodies-of-water/ Size matters. […]

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

 Add me to your mailing list

Search this site

  • Blog hops tours & reblogs (163)
  • Entertainment (157)
  • Events and Giveaways (107)
  • Free Stuff (49)
  • Fun Historical Facts (209)
  • Interviews Features and Reviews (126)
  • Maps and Infographics (77)
  • Marketing (313)
  • My friends' Guest Posts (158)
  • My Guest posts (13)
  • My Publications (185)
  • Publishing (154)
  • Random Musings (141)
  • Writing (322)

Recent Posts

  • Using AI in Fiction Writing
  • 5 Best AI Content Detectors to Check AI-Generated Content
  • New Release: The Soul Whisperer’s Decision
  • Happy New Year 2024
  • Merry Christmas

Subscribe and Save

Privacy/affiliate links.

When you leave a comment, WordPress stores information like your name, email etc. This is not shared with third parties. Please read my Privacy Policy to find out how this may be used. This website includes affiliate links

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Writing Tips Oasis

Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books.

10 Words to Describe a Calm River

By Brittany Kuhn

words to describe a calm river

The way you describe your setting can have an impact on how your characters respond or react to the events in your plot. Even if you are just describing a calm river in order to help the reader visualize the setting, it’s important to use descriptive words that tap into the senses a bit more. If you need some words to describe a calm river, try using one of the 10 below to help your reader ‘see’ the river in all its serenity.

1. Tranquil

Definitions.

  • Without disturbance or commotion.
  • Unwavering or steady.

“She gazed out at the tranquil river, feeling its peace and stillness within her.”

“The tranquil river flowed effortlessly along its banks.”

How it Adds Description

The word tranquil suggests that the river is peaceful and calm, almost heavenly: the water moves swiftly but easily along the banks, maybe there are birds chirping sweetly and the sun is shining brightly. Use tranquil if you want your reader to imagine the river as perfect and picturesque.

  • Free of unpleasantness or disruption.
  • Complete calm and quietude.

“The serene river made him feel at ease.”

“Travelling on the serene river was a breeze compared to the tumultuous storm at sea.”

Serene is best used when comparing the river to something wild and frayed because it creates an image of a setting so peaceful that it calms everything around it. Maybe your character is nervous or scared; if you have them visit or come across a serene river, they may immediately feel at ease and able to handle whatever situation they find themselves in.

“The river was so still that she could see the fish moving beneath the surface.”

“The still river reflected his image back at him.”

Still suggests a body of water that is flat, like glass. You can use it to describe a river that has no movement or if you want your characters to be able to see what’s beneath the water’s surface. You could also use still to describe a river before something has shattered the stillness, making the event that much more impressive. Think of the image a shattered window or mirror has; disturbing a still river would have the same effect.

Without noise or movement.

“The river was so quiet you could hear the dewdrops falling from the leaves.”

“He was surprised at how quiet the river was considering how loud the storm was the night before.”

If you want to highlight how the river sounds, describing it as quiet will help your reader imagine the lack of noise and imagine water moving smoothly, without anything in its way. Quiet could be used in a positive manner, highlighting the lack of noise if the character needs things to be silent. Or you could also use quiet to show a calm river that is a bit eerie or hiding something sinister, if it is too quiet.

5. Peaceful

Easygoing , without force.

“The driftwood travelled along the peaceful river, with nothing to stop its travels.”

“She fell asleep in her rowboat as it floated along the peaceful river, content in the knowledge that she was safe from harm.”

Like tranquil and serene , peaceful tells your reader there is nothing to fear in this river; the animals won’t bite, there won’t be any unexpected waterfalls or rapids. Your characters can travel easily.

Without commotion or trouble.

“The placid river calmed her anxious nerves.”

“He felt at home, sitting on the banks of the placid river.”

Placid implies a body of water with zero movement: no animals, no waves, not even a breeze. It could be used as a positive adjective, like in the examples above, or you could use it as a negative, to suggest that there is something wrong with the river since there is no activity within it.

  • So clear it’s see-through.
  • Completely calm and undisturbed.

“She gazed into the limpid river, watching the fish swim to and fro.”

“The limpid river sat unmoving, not a ripple breaking through its waters.”

Limpid suggests to the reader that the surface of the water is so flat that it looks like a piece of glass. Limpid also suggests that nothing is moving, not even the fish, so you could use it to describe a river in the middle of summer, when the heat is so thick and humid that everything wants to stay asleep until it cools off a little.

  • Having an even or level surface.
  • easygoing or untroubled.

“The smooth river flowed easily along the banks.”

“She enjoyed the boat ride along the smooth river.”

Because smooth can describe both a texture and movement, use it in your own novel to show how a river looks and feels at the same time. You can also use smooth to show how pleasant the calm river is to the characters interacting with it, especially if they are travelling down the river by boat. A smooth ride is much more enjoyable than a rough one.

A condition of calm and relaxation .

“While the river was normally chaotic and agitated, today it seemed sedated.”

“The river became sedate after they rounded the bend, not a ripple in sight.”

Since sedated implies someone or something that has been calmed by something or someone else, use sedate in your own story when trying to show a river that has changed from being rough or rapid. This will show your reader that there has been a positive change in the setting, and they should probably pay attention to what is happening next.

Relaxed , pleasing, comfortable.

“He floated along the mellow river, feeling quite at ease himself.”

“The sounds of the mellow river cooled his angry mind.”

Like a mellow person, a mellow river is a place of peace and happiness. Use it in your own novel to make the reader feel contentment in the setting. It is especially useful to show a setting contrasting with a character’s excitement or anxiety (in order to calm them down) or with a stormy and scary environment.

  • Mission, Vision, Values & Equity
  • Where We Work
  • Reports & Newsletters
  • Staff & Board
  • In the Media
  • Conservation
  • Land Use & Planning
  • Stewardship & Education
  • 30 Ways to Help the River
  • Landscape for the River
  • Join or Renew
  • Ways to Give
  • Donate Online
  • Mississippi Riverkeepers
  • Legacy Giving

Write to the River — Fall 2017 Prose & Poetry

creative writing about river

The Mighty Mississippi gently flows between the bridge that connects the hillside and lowland. Photographer Tom Reiter captured the moment above with a paddleboat passenger enjoying the Big River and the iconic High Bridge in St. Paul. We asked readers what inspires them to reflect upon the river, and received a wide range of thoughtful responses. We hope their writing inspires you!

Write to the River is a creative writing project to inspire artistic engagement with our river environment. We invite you to share an original poem or short prose response to seasonal images along the Upper Mississippi River. Our next photo prompt and call for creative writing submissions will be in the December issue of our e-newsletter, " Mississippi Messages ." 

high bridge

by Ellen Fee

how many boats have split the water under these arches, under these stars? centuries of sand piled on these shores, legacy of glaciers and dust. generations behind me each time I trace the water with my eyes, watching the current become sky.

by Chelsi Kahl

My husband and I live on a houseboat. It is not large or glamorous. It is very small, very simple. People always ask, “Why did you decide to do that?”  It is a strange question to answer; I think, “well, why not?” I do formulate an answer to explain what seems so natural to me. I explain that the river has always felt more home than any house. More than an apartment in the city or a house in the suburbs, the river is a peaceful place to rest my head. From childhood on, this river has been a source of calm, wonder, adventure, and growth. The essence of my answer is this- I did not choose the river; the river so easily chose me.

I work at a hospital in downtown Minneapolis; here, the noises, the people, and the tasks are constant. I observe that much of the city feels this way — rushed, distracted. How could I be a good nurse if I only knew chaos? For my patients and their families, I need to be calm, balanced, clear-headed; in such difficult times, a source of peace and focus is vital. The river is my reprieve.

The flow of this grand river reminds me that the world is constantly changing; life does not stand still. The seasonal rises and falls of the mighty Mississippi is sometimes a harsh but necessary reminder that nature is powerful, more powerful than you or me; we must take care of it and respect it.

When I see trash in the river, I wish I could bring the person who left it to this place so that they too could recognize the consequences of small and simple actions. I admire the stoic stance of the blue heron as I kayak by. He thinks I don’t see him, so I play along and admire quietly.

Every part of nature is felt here — the cold, the wind, the storms, the geese as they fly overhead in migration and the people too. People along the river feel nature so intimately. They feel the change of the season because they are a part of it. Just like the geese flying above or the beavers storing food for winter, we, the weird boat people, prepare too. Winter will not keep us away from the river. We will adapt and remain; no matter the circumstance, this river is home.

Notes from the Owner's Manual

by Jim Larson

To start, you need to invent gravity; and give it time to work its way with things. Then you find a slope and add some water, lots of it, like from a dying glacier. Congratulations! You’ve just made a river.

Or, on a good day, take two continents and arrange a gradual collision. Then you wait for several million years to grow a mountain range. And after that you let the continents relax. The ditch you get will probably find an ocean. Then just leave your handiwork alone. The rain will find it and know what to do. Let somebody else give it a name.

River concrete poem

by Christine Bronk

Write to the River in Motion

the Boat section (brown): Boats carrying anglers ride upon the flow. Lines are cast, create eddies, bait is out, seeking to catch the big one. the Rocks/Underwater log section (black): Rocks upon the riverbed create eddies, minor changes in current, small pockets of rapids; Or, deeper below the surface, catching and trapping branches and logs and snagging lures. the River section (various shades of blue): Water flows on, continuously streaming, carrying leaves, twigs, sand, mud, and boats. The river moves and meanders, taking the route of least resistance, seeking the ocean.

Water moves, quickly running and churning, or lazily drifting; The paces change, but not the motion.

Water erodes banks and deposits sandbars, shaping the landscape; Taking life in flooding, Giving life in sustenance. A continuous, flowing dance.

Water, like time, marches one, carrying all of us with it. Mighty Mississippi

by Linda Moua

At any given moment I feel as though I am guest on her flowing body At this very moment She provides passage to spy on carefully hidden neighbors

At any given moment I could fall though her chilly surface and suffer an abrupt shock At this very moment She can only feel the towing of my paddles left to right

At any given moment I look up to her thicket of verdant friends to find inner peace At this very moment She has craftily coaxed me to silence as I slip into awe

At any given moment I see that I am only a small explorer in her noble domain Because at this very moment She has painted me a self- portrait of who she is and why she is mighty

Deep Freeze

by Margie O’Loughlin

Today it is bone-chillingly cold But dogs and their owners are intrepid So I bundle up for our daily walk And we head down to the river anyhow

My dog Lola is unaffected by the cold Though her coat is not luxurious She has produced a little frost beard this morning And lifts her paws in a brisk, attractive way

The mighty Mississippi was brown with mud two days ago But this morning, thick ice reaches from shore to shore Snow devils whirl and twist across its surface The ducks and the geese are silent

I throw a stick for Lola, and it hovers in the air As if it can’t push through The trees are groaning, the ice is snapping Lola’s stick finally crashes to the ground

Suddenly wind fills the river valley In a cheek-puffing exhale of such strength I think it must have come from the top of the world Gathering force as it surged across the ice fields of the Arctic

Every now and then someone will ask me how I can stand it here But I know I will never leave Like the wind that came to rest in the river valley this morning This is the place I call home.

Río de Dios (in Spanish)

- para chris stanley.

by Sarah Degner Riveros

Hay un río que alegra la ciudad de Dios. Hay en el río las aguas brillantes que reflejan el cielo urbano. Hay en la orilla las raíces de los sauces que lamentan y los rizos de los helechos acurrucados al lado del río. Hay una mano divina que mueve las aguas profundas y turbulentas del Río Mississippi. Hay una multitud de peces y plantas que fluyen por el agua que los nutre a lo largo del caudal. Hay en la ribera una manada de niños que gritan y brincan al agua y nos hacen olvidar. En las profundidades del fondo del río, en la oscuridad, descansa el lodo del cual Dios nos formó. Hay en el puente una madre que llora, y un hijo gimiendo Quédate con nosotros porque ya está de noche, y las aguas son profundas y oscuras. Hay un río que se acongoja con la ciudad de Dios. Hay en la ciudad un río de Dios. Hay un río. ¡Ay, Dios!

River of God (in English)

 - for chris stanley.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God. There in the river are sparkling waters that reflect the urban sky. There on the shore, the roots of the willows lament and the curls of ferns cuddle beside the river. There is a divine hand that moves the deep and turbulent waters of the River Mississippi. There are a multitude of fish and plants that feed among the waters that nourish them all along the river's flow. On the river bank, a handful of children shout and jump in the water and they make us forget. In the depths of the river bottom, the mud from which God formed us is resting. There is a bridge where a mother cries and a son is groaning. Stay with us for now it is night and the waters are deep and dark. There is a river that grieves with the city of God. There in the city is a river of God. There is a river. Oh, dear God. ¡Ay, Dios!

The Water Wheel

by Johannah Bomster

Snow, ice, water. Winter, then snowmelt runoff and Spring rains. Geese. They mate for life. Eggs, goslings, geese. The wheel. The wheel. The wheel.

by Cecelia Watkins

staying. what does it feel like? tell me, old battered willow is it easier when you’ve no choice in the matter?

is it as simple as a single decision or must it be an active choosing an every day re-committing while knowing the rest of the world spins on, enchanting, tantalizing within easy reach… all it would take is to lift the foot and go.

the river is a trickster teacher. at a glance she is a constant, steady yet the water does not stay. and still somehow the moving flow it makes a home, it curves out cozy hollowed banks and builds a nest of dogwood, red as hearts on valentines.

can one live fully without going? ask the willow. can one love fully without staying? ask the river.

Get Them To The River

we must get them to the river. all else can be abandoned. leave behind curriculae, all plans, intentions, adult inventions just step aside with open arms and watch:           children run to running water.

mussel shells and beaver pelt life must be smelled, it must be felt! let us all circle Cottonwood and ask, how many of us could hold her in a hug? how many has she held throughout her flood-ecstatic steady life?

the beach is rife with rocks to skip yes pick one up and throw just so— these eager little humans pitch the stones like playground balls and though they fall straight to the depths the splashing plunk still makes them laugh.

when time is running short we ditch all our spreadsheet laid out stations when you are 10 you have no patience to wait and watch to sit and listen we must let them reach the river.

The Eldest Daughter Questions Mississippi, The Father of Waters

by Willow Thompson

Father, will you play with me? .......Daughter, you might not have noticed, but I am playing constantly--jumping, rolling, making waves, becoming quiet for no reason. Just waiting for you to join me!

Father, what was it like when you were very young? .......Daughter, I'll explain it to you some day. Time is a mystery. I come from humble beginnings, but many streams have joined me, many storms have watered me, and many winter squalls have slowed my progress. My job is just to observe and keep moving.

Father, were you always so handsome? .......Daughter, I'm just who I am. It's only through your eyes that I seem great, eternal, or wise.

Father, when you leave, will you take me with you? .......Daughter, I never know where I might rest, but every time you visit and enjoy my company, I am giving you knowledge that will help you follow your own path.

Father, I'm getting very busy...I may not be able to visit you for a long time. .......Daughter, you're an adult now. You have many obligations. Take them on wholeheartedly. Just remember I will always be here for you whenever you need me. Don't be afraid if I seem distant. I'll always have a place for you to rest.

Father? Father? .......[It's winter now. All is silent.]

Father? I'm alone. I'm scared. Please speak to me. .......[The trees are bare, the woods are quiet. The animals are gone or sleeping in secret places. The River is still and its surface is white with deep blue ice where it passes near the Daughter's home.]

.......[from a Great Distance:  My daughter, I love you. Please think of me in the springtime when the new birds sing. Visit me in summer- it will be warmer then, and even if we don't speak, we can still sit together and share a silence. Come to me in October, when the trees rain golden leaves and the shortened days still leave time for remembrance. Even in winter, I will always be here in some form, until it is time for me to slow down long enough to bring a boat... to show you the way home.

Lost and Found 

by Justin Florey

On Father’s Day, I took my older boy down to where Minnehaha Creek flows into the Mississippi River. We parked our bikes by some bushes where the path eroded away into sand. My son wanted to look for lost fishing lures to place in the little tackle box I had given him. He carried it everywhere, even to his weekly appointment with the counselor who was altogether befuddled by his ramblings about Mepps spinners and Mister Twisters. The tackle box was almost filled to capacity and he was already pestering me for a larger one. It perturbed me that every gift seemed to somehow necessitate another.

“Just be satisfied with what you have,” I told him which was something I was forever telling myself.

The bank was crowded with people angling and throwing rocks. A festive procession crossed the footbridge to follow the creek back up to the waterfall. The creek was a foot lower than the last time we had been there catching bluegills from the bridge. Now the water was too fast and low for that. I commented to him how the river was a little different each time. I pointed out the island out towards the dam, how sometimes it was underwater with just the trees visible. I told him we’d canoe out to it someday and fish. He seemed a bit lost as to where to begin his search. I suggested he try looking in the exposed roots of a dead tree that usually held fish when the water was up. He managed to find a few jigs and a bobber but seemed disappointed.

“Well, you can keep on looking if want or help me pick up trash,” I said raising the Hefty bag I had brought along.

We split off in opposite directions. I stooped over to place the discarded energy drink cans, plastic water bottles, bait containers, broken beer bottles, soggy diapers, and whatever other manner of American detritus I could find into the sack. It was sickening to me that people treated the shoreline of what I considered a national treasure with such contempt. Almost unavoidably, when I told anyone I liked to fish there for walleye and smallmouth, they were surprised that anything other than a carp could live in such a polluted sewer. Well, I wouldn’t drink out of it, but it did support an incredible abundance of life--birds especially. I almost always spied a bald eagle or a heron whenever I went there. As I like to tell my boys, “If you throw a worm into the Mississippi, you never know what you might catch.”

I turned my attention to an accumulation of bottle glass along the concrete wall of a graffiti-covered storm drain. Drunken hooligans had tossed their empties down from above. I smiled apologetically for intruding on a Spanish-speaking family fishing nearby. Pausing in my collection, I looked around for Miles but couldn’t see him. I hurriedly gathered the rest of the trash along the wall and went back toward the bridge. The bag was heavy now and I was eager to dispose of it. Finally, I picked him out of the crowd by his bicycle helmet. Moving along the shore, he looked like a walking mushroom as he scanned the river-stones for treasure.

I paused near the dead tree where a man was staring intently into the water as he repeated the same short cast with a plastic worm. Utilizing my polarized sunglasses, I could make out a pike undulating in place like an eel in the creek current. I reached Miles and showed him all the trash I had collected. He grumpily showed me a hook he had found.

“That’s a good catfish hook,” I told him. “Should we get back home? You seem tired and I don’t want to keep you out here too late.”

“No,” he snapped. “I’ve barely found anything. I’m still looking.”

“All right, a little longer. Look son, people don’t want to lose their fishing lures.They’re expensive. You just have to find them by accident when you fish. If you go out looking for them it won’t happen. That’s how it works. Why don’t you look in those rocks?”

Riprap lined the shore all the way to the lock and dam. I watched him balance nimbly on the boulders and concrete slabs. He had become a boy, determined with his own interests. I cautioned him to be careful. My son possesses a great innocence and sensitivity, an openness to new experience that will unavoidably dull over time. People will make him ashamed of these qualities and he will learn to disguise them from the world. He will be corrupted. He will grow up. I cannot stop this from happening, nor would I want to. I can only recognize this moment we inhabit together as special.

“Try looking under the rocks where people might have gotten snagged. The best time to try would be right after the water level drops. I’m going to get those plastic bottles up there and then we’re going to leave. We need to get you into bed.”

We scrambled up the bank. I placed the bag of trash into a barrel and went to the spot I had left the bikes. I looked down at the blank area of grass a bit startled and confused.

“We left them somewhere around here,” I said turning my head about wildly as I walked in a circle.

“Our bikes were stolen,” my son stated in a flat, dejected way.

I felt gutted, like something had been carved out of me from my throat to my solar plexus. I placed my hand on my son’s small shoulder.

“I’m sorry this happened. This is Dad’s fault.” I looked around at the laughing people feeling altogether violated and stupid. “I should have locked them up.” I looked into my son’s face. He was calmer than I would have expected, in shock I suppose. “We’ll have to walk home.”

I was relieved he was taking it so well. Two miles would have been a long way to carry him. I took out my phone then put it away. I was quite worried about what my wife would say. We walked quickly down the gravel path, both of us angry in our strides.

“Maybe we can catch up to them,” I said even though this was absurd given they had bikes and we didn’t. We both had our helmets on. God, I felt like a fool! “You might get to see Dad kick someone’s ass,” I muttered.

I was angry with myself. I had that mountain bike since 1995. It was a damn good bike. I thought of all the miles I’d rode on it. Then an image of my son standing confidently on the pedals of his own bike formed before my eyes. On the way there, I had been so proud of how well he rode. He’d started out the season on training wheels, reverting to them after a bad experience. The bike had been a little big for him before. It was his first bike. I had given it to him for his birthday. Now it was gone. What kind of a sociopath steals a father and son’s bicycles on Father’s Day? I realized that I had become overly comfortable, living in some imagined bubble. There were rapists and murderers living in Minneapolis. I had to do a better job looking out for my son. I stopped walking and rubbed his back, asking him if he was ok.

“I want my bike back,” he declared angrily.

“Look, we’ll get you a new bike. This is Dad’s fault. This isn’t your fault.”

 “Can I get a mountain bike?” he asked, perking up.

“Maybe, I have to talk to Mom. Money’s a little tight right now. We’ll take care of you. You’re gonna have a bike.” We started walking again. “I just want you to remember how this made you feel. That’s why we never steal from anyone, because this is how it makes them feel.”

He furrowed his brow and nodded in deep understanding.

“You saw all those people down there. Most people are good. But a small number of bad ones ruin it for everyone else.”

He nodded again. I texted my wife the unfortunate news. We came to a pool where kids like to wade with a large family gathering nearby. I looked for our bikes amongst the crowd of picnickers. Internally, I continued to beat myself up. The evening before Miles had complained about being bored and I suggested we hang the birdhouse that had been in the basement since winter.

The ground was a bit uneven and the footing on the small stepladder wobbled under me as I strained to fasten the birdhouse to the limb with a length of rope. To make him feel involved, I asked him to hold the ladder. I immediately realized this was stupid, but blundered ahead anyway. The rope slipped and I saw the house strike the top of his head and the bright red blood on his shirt.

“Oh, my God!” I exclaimed and ran for a towel.

It looked worse than it was, a small cut in his scalp that didn’t require stitches. We got it to stop bleeding. I’d started my second beer before this happened. I was always scrambling to meet the demands of my family. I barely had time to take a shower, let alone sit down when I came home from work. I needed things to stop moving so fast, but I knew they never would. We had left the river area and came to the playground. I wanted to check the bike racks by the waterfall in case someone had just taken them for a joyride. It was a slim chance, but I wasn’t ready yet to let go. Miles had been complaining about his legs being tired. I asked if it would be all right to leave him. 

“I don’t want to lose you too,” I said.

I jogged down to the falls and, of course, found nothing, many bikes but none of them ours. I hurried back to Miles. We checked at the Dairy Queen because, as I said to him, “criminals tend not to be the brightest people.” Walking along the sidewalk of Minnehaha Avenue, I noticed someone walking a bike with someone else riding a block ahead. It looked like a children’s bike.

“Those could be our bikes,” I said to Miles.

I started running. Miles started running too. They weren’t our bikes which was probably just as well. I felt like a 12-year-old. It was time I got my son home. Bike-less, we said hello to the neighbors without explaining what had happened and put our helmets in the garage. He started crying when he got inside the house. After we’d finally got him settled down, I saw him throwing punches in the air inside the shower.

A couple of days later, Emily found a children’s mountain bike at a good price on Craigslist. I drove Miles to Roseville and we checked it out. It was black with gears and a suspension fork. Miles loved it. I had been concerned about him using a handbrake. He didn’t have any problems. My first bike had been a red Schwinn with a banana seat. It had a horn and a bell. My parents made me put a flag on it. When I got to be school-age I realized I should have bought a dirt bike like the cool kids. Driving home with the knobby-tired bike in the trunk, I felt redeemed.

“This is kind of an upgrade,” Miles said happily from the backseat.

The next evening, I took him on some flat trails that meandered through the trees along the Minnesota River. He tried to go through the first puddle he saw and got stuck in the mud. 

“You have to go around the big puddles here,” I said. “You better follow me.”

With his low center of gravity and fearlessness, he was a natural, cruising over obstacles that I didn’t even attempt with the narrow tires of my wife’s bike. It had been years since I had been on that trail.

“I love mountain biking!” he cried out in exuberance more than once. Both him and his bike were covered in mud. He could ride as fast as me.

“If you’re doing this at 7, think what you’ll be doing at 17.” I told him. “Dad won’t be able to keep up with you.”

“Yeah!” he cried.

“Dad will be old then,” I said too quiet for him to hear. “Dad’s old now.”

Upcoming Events

See all Upcoming Events

Enjoy our 2023 annual report

Celebrate a full, impactful year by exploring our interactive digital report's stories, pictures and more

Receive FMR's biweekly email newsletter, Mississippi Messages  Sign up

Headwaters Magazine

Poetry & Creative Writing

The Beaver - A Keystone Species

It is hard living in a world of abundance and simultaneous scarcity. Millions of years ago, possibly more than 10 million years ago, beavers walked to America from Eurasia. Here they stayed until Europeans came and almost hunted them to extinction for their fur and for the oil they secrete which was used in perfume.

  • Words with Friends Cheat
  • Wordle Solver
  • Word Unscrambler
  • Scrabble Dictionary
  • Anagram Solver
  • Wordscapes Answers

Make Our Dictionary Yours

Sign up for our weekly newsletters and get:

  • Grammar and writing tips
  • Fun language articles
  • #WordOfTheDay and quizzes

By signing in, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

We'll see you in your inbox soon.

Ultimate List of Water Words for Descriptive Writing

list of water words

  • DESCRIPTION list of water words
  • SOURCE Abstract Aerial Art / DigitalVision / Getty Images
  • PERMISSION Used under license of Getty Images

There’s no reason to use the same word over and over when you’re describing water in your writing. There are a lot of different words to describe water in all of its many forms. Discover a variety of options on this ultimate list of water words.

Describing the Appearance of Water

Some of the words to describe water paint a clear picture by explaining the appearance of water .

  • crystal clear
  • transparent

Descriptive Terms for Bodies of Water

There are several types of bodies of water , each described by a unique name. Be sure you use the correct term for any body of water you’re describing in your writing.

Terms to Describe Different Types of Water

There are many types of water, some of which occur naturally and others that occur as a result of treatment or being used.

Describing Water Movement

Water can be still or move in different ways. Using descriptive words to show how water moves can really clarify the setting in a story .

  • tempestuous

Descriptive Terms for Water Depth or Level

The depth of water can vary greatly; some bodies of water are naturally very deep while others are more shallow. Water levels can rise or fall due to a variety of factors, including changing tides.

  • flood stage
  • overflowing
  • storm surge

Words to Describe Water Temperature

Water can take on a wide variety of temperatures, from boiling hot to freezing cold.

  • burning hot
  • sea surface temperatures
  • temperature

Describing Water as Precipitation

Water sometimes takes the form of precipitation, so some words that describe water are weather-related terms.

  • coming down

Words That Describe the State of Water

Some terms that describe water refer to the state of water, such as whether substances have been added to or removed from the water.

  • chlorinated
  • contaminated

Words for Water Activities

There are a wide variety of water-related sports and activities that many people enjoy participating in.

  • bodyboarding
  • cliff diving
  • hydrofoiling
  • paddleboarding
  • scuba diving
  • synchronized swimming
  • wakeboarding
  • water aerobics
  • water ballet
  • windsurfing

Other Words to Describe Water

Some words that describe water don’t fall neatly into one of the above categories. Discover several additional descriptive terms for water.

Many Words to Describe Water

As you can see, there are a lot of different ways to describe water. Whether you’re looking for the perfect word to describe the surface of water at a particular point in time under specific conditions or you’re looking to precisely describe a particular body of water or type of water, there are plenty of options to consider. You’ll be able to paint a very clear picture for readers when you carefully select descriptive terms from this list.

Boost Writing Quality With Descriptive Word Lists

Don’t stop with looking for descriptive words for water. Make sure your writing is engaging and interesting to readers by using descriptive language throughout your work. Now that you have an extensive list of water words, seek other terminology to make your writing more vivid. Start by reviewing this list of descriptive words, which includes adverbs, adjectives and gerunds . From there, explore other descriptive word lists on a wide variety of topics. If you want to learn more about water from a scientific perspective, check out the properties of water .

We use cookies to enhance our website for you. Proceed if you agree to this policy or learn more about it.

  • Essay Database >
  • Essays Samples >
  • Essay Types >
  • Creative Writing Example

River Creative Writings Samples For Students

10 samples of this type

If you're looking for an applicable way to streamline writing a Creative Writing about River, WowEssays.com paper writing service just might be able to help you out.

For starters, you should browse our large directory of free samples that cover most diverse River Creative Writing topics and showcase the best academic writing practices. Once you feel that you've studied the major principles of content organization and taken away actionable insights from these expertly written Creative Writing samples, putting together your own academic work should go much easier.

However, you might still find yourself in a situation when even using top-notch River Creative Writings doesn't let you get the job done on time. In that case, you can get in touch with our experts and ask them to craft a unique River paper according to your individual specifications. Buy college research paper or essay now!

Tiramisu Magic Creative Writing Examples

Narrative essay creative writings examples.

Introduction It is not every day of your life that you have an adventure. Adventures are supposed to be hair-raising and goose bumping, and are supposed to occur once in maybe twenty years. When I had a series of heart-stopping adventures on a short trip to Colorado, I realized that there are exceptions to the rule. As a person, I grew up more rapidly in my trip to Colorado than I have grown at any point in my life.

Example Of Creative Writing On Divine

Assignment 2..

Don't waste your time searching for a sample.

Get your creative writing done by professional writers!

Just from $10/page

Expertly Written Creative Writing On Appropriate Prevention And Cure Of River Blindness. To Follow

Example of creative writing on the transition from proto-industrial revolution to industrial production, free creative writing on vacation in nature.

I chose to visit a park not far away from the city but in a forested area next to an artificial river. I specifically chose a small water fall and sat just next close to it and fully concentrated on my surroundings. After about ten minutes of silence and full concentration, my senses of smell and hearing were very much stimulated. I could for instance perceive the smell of river water not at all like the tap water, but a strange freshness that I had not expected. I initially thought water was the same everywhere and that it was without any scent.

Good Example Of The City Of New York Creative Writing

Introduction, free creative writing on harriet tubman, pioneer for freedom and women’s rights.

In 1820 or 1821, a baby named Araminta Ross was born to the parents of Harriet Ross and Benjamin Green. The family lived in Dorchester County, Maryland, an area which allowed slavery. At some point in her early years, young Araminta changed her name to the same as her mother’s, Harriet (Chism).

Perspective On Individual Creative Writing Sample

Question # 1, good example of creative writing on pushkin poem/yevgeni poem, question 1:.

Password recovery email has been sent to [email protected]

Use your new password to log in

You are not register!

By clicking Register, you agree to our Terms of Service and that you have read our Privacy Policy .

Now you can download documents directly to your device!

Check your email! An email with your password has already been sent to you! Now you can download documents directly to your device.

or Use the QR code to Save this Paper to Your Phone

The sample is NOT original!

Short on a deadline?

Don't waste time. Get help with 11% off using code - GETWOWED

No, thanks! I'm fine with missing my deadline

New Header

Celebrating life around river in creative words

Discover-Brightwater-creative-writing-course-2.JPG.gallery

  • March, 2022

A CREATIVE writing project celebrating life around a North-East river has started with the first of a series of free workshops.

The project has been launched by Groundwork North East and Cumbria on behalf of the Discover Brightwater Landscape Partnership.

CREATIVE writing project

Discover Brightwater is a 3.3m landscape project based around the River Skerne, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and made possible by people playing the National Lottery.

The creative-writing workshops are being led by award-winning poet Harry Man at three locations with links to the River Skerne – Aycliffe Village Hall, the Freemasons’ Hall in Darlington, and Ceddesfeld Hall in Sedgefield.

The first workshop was held on Saturday afternoon at Aycliffe Village Hall.

Mr Man said: “We are delighted with the positive response to the workshops, we’ve got really good numbers attending, and I’m looking forward to hearing exciting new voices.”

Among those attending the first workshop was Danny Metcalfe, a budding poet and short story writer, who lives in Ferryhill.

He said: “It’s a great opportunity to meet other writers and the focus on the River Skerne is really interesting because I like to write about the local area and its history.”

Dawn Hopps, a social worker from Toft Hill, was another to sign up for the course in the hope that it will be a step towards achieving her dream of becoming a published writer.

“I felt it would be a good introduction to writing and anything creative that can be provided in the local area is welcome,” she said.

The project also features a short story competition with a 1,000 first prize, and the publication of an anthology of the leading entries.

Entries must be a maximum of 5,000 words and feature a reference to the Skerne and the landscape around it.

More courses are being held at Aycliffe, Darlington and Sedgefield over the next month.

To find out how to enter the competition and register for the courses, go to www.paperand.ink/brightwater

By Peter Barron

Free creative-writing courses get underway to celebrate life around River Skerne | The Northern Echo

Brightwater News

19. Bishop's Fen, looking south from disused railway

BE PART OF SOMETHING PRETTY AMAZING

Get in touch with us today to receive updates about the Discover Brightwater programme and information on opportunities to get involved… JUST ENTER YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW AND FIRE IT AWAY…

  • Name First Last
  • Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Global Footer 1

Bright Water Landscape Partnership, Unit 28 Durham Way South, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6XP

[email protected]

Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions

Web Design by LemonTop

DescribingWord.Com

A to Z Collection of Describing Words

Adjectives for River Words to Describe River

140+ Best Adjectives for River, Words to Describe River

From the mighty Mississippi to the sparkling Danube, rivers have inspired and captivated us for millennia. From ancient tales of gods, heroes, and monsters, to modern-day canoeing expeditions around the world – a river can provide an escape from reality while forming a part of our identity. Whether you’re writing poetry or trying to capture the nuances of your favorite stream on canvas; there is nothing quite like experimenting with words and descriptions in order to accurately express what experiences mean to you.

Table of Contents

In this blog post, we’ll explore different adjectives that can be used when talking about rivers with a particular focus on describing their qualities, shapes, power dynamics, moods, senses, and much more!

Here are the 10 Most Popular Adjectives for River:

  • Crystal clear

Discover More: Adjectives For Responsibility

Adjectives for River Words to Describe River

Words to Describe River

Here are Some Useful Words to describe River with Meanings;

  • Majestic – grand, imposing body of water
  • Serene – calm, peaceful flow
  • Rushing – fast, turbulent current
  • Muddy – murky, opaque appearance
  • Sparkling – shining, glimmering surface
  • Crystal-clear – transparent, pristine water
  • Meandering – winding, twisting course
  • Narrow – slim, confined width
  • Wide – broad, expansive width
  • Shallow – not deep, low water level
  • Deep – profound, vast depth
  • Swift – rapid, fast-moving flow
  • Lazy – slow, relaxed movement
  • Turbulent – chaotic, violent flow
  • Tranquil – calm, peaceful water
  • Brackish – slightly salty, mixed with seawater
  • Bubbling – effervescent, foamy surface
  • Glistening – shiny, luminous water
  • Frothing – a bubbling, foamy surface
  • Noisy – loud, boisterous flow

Adjectives for River

Here is a Huge List of Adjectives that are used for River:

  • Fast-moving
  • Slow-moving
  • Crystal-clear
  • Free-flowing
  • Breathtaking
  • Mesmerizing
  • Tempestuous
  • Picturesque
  • Unpredictable
  • Sensational
  • Transcendent
  • Illuminating
  • Inspirational
  • Unfathomable
  • Captivating
  • Tranquilizing
  • Overwhelming

River Description Words

Here are River Description words with Meanings in English;

  • Silent – quiet, still water
  • Rippling – waving, undulating surface
  • Eroding – wearing away, shaping the riverbank
  • Cascading – waterfall-like flow, falling in stages
  • Trickling – slow, thin flow
  • Torrential – heavy, intense flow
  • Choppy – rough, irregular surface
  • Winding – meandering, sinuous course
  • Curving – bent, rounded course
  • Flooding – overflowing, inundating banks
  • Calm – peaceful, still water
  • Fierce – powerful, intense flow
  • Serpentine – snakelike, twisting course
  • Invigorating – energizing, refreshing water
  • Endless – limitless, never-ending flow
  • Pristine – pure, unspoiled water
  • Undulating – wavy, fluctuating surface
  • Mysterious – enigmatic, unknown depths
  • Refreshing – revitalizing, cool water

Ways to Describe River in Writing

Here are 20 amazing ways to describe River in Creative Writings:

  • Glistening waters reflect the sun’s rays.
  • A serene river meanders through the valley.
  • Over smooth stones, crystal-clear water flows.
  • The powerful current shapes the landscape.
  • Majestic herons wade in the shallows.
  • In the tranquil river, fish swim leisurely.
  • Gentle breezes stir the rippling surface.
  • Along the meandering riverbanks, wildflowers bloom.
  • A verdant canopy shades the river’s edge.
  • Calm waters invite quiet contemplation.
  • Swift currents carve their way downstream.
  • In the shimmering water, dragonflies dance.
  • Babbling brooks join the mighty river.
  • Beneath the surface, vibrant life flourishes.
  • The mysterious depths hide ancient secrets.
  • Gentle waves lap against the shore.
  • A narrow channel feeds into the river.
  • Wide rivers serve as natural highways.
  • Turbulent white-water rapids challenge adventurers.
  • The shallow riverbed exposes rounded stones.

How do you describe a river in creative writing?

The river meandered gracefully, its shimmering waters reflecting the sun’s vibrant dance. A gentle chorus of rippling currents whispered sweet nothings to the pebbled shore, painting a breathtaking portrait of tranquility and life.

How would you describe the beauty of a river?

The river’s beauty unfurled like a silken ribbon, weaving through lush landscapes with a tender touch. Its undulating surface mirrored the sky’s ever-changing hues, drawing the heart into a symphony of colors and emotions, forever etching its charm into the soul.

How do you describe a fast-flowing river?

The fast-flowing river surged with a primal force, its torrential currents a tempestuous dance of unbridled energy. Its frothy whitecaps leaped and twirled, embracing the shores with an exuberant flourish, leaving the air tingling with excitement and awe.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

River and South Review

River and South Review seeks to be a home for work that evokes a visceral reaction, encourages continued conversation, captures the adventures of life, and spurs our readers to go find their own adventures to write about.

As writers, we want writing that makes us wish we had written it. We want writing that makes us think and wonder; laugh and cry; sigh and scream; nod our heads yes and no. We want work that stays with us long after we’ve left the page. And, of course, we want all of this in well-crafted pieces that demonstrate skill with form and language.

The editorial staff of  River & South  values inclusivity and diversity. To that end, we especially welcome the opportunity to read and consider work by under-represented and marginalized voices including but not limited to Black, Indigenous, Latine, Asian, and South Asian writers, members of the LBGTQA+ community, writers with disabilities, and older adults.

River & South Review publishes twice each year – a Summer issue in June and a Winter issue in January.

Submissions are open February 15 through March 15 for summer issues. Submissions are open August 30 through September 30 for winter issues.

For those who have previously submitted, please wait one entire submission period before presenting additional creative work.

River & South Review only publishes previously unpublished work. We consider content appearing in print and online journals, anthologies, books, and personal blogs as published.

Currently, we do not publish AI-generated work. Please do not submit poems, essays, or short stories you've created using AI. 

We do not publish work by anyone with an affiliation to Wilkes University, the Maslow Family Graduate Program in Creative Writing, or the writing workshops that Wilkes University offers.

  • Fiction - submit original, previously unpublished stories up to 2,500 words in a .doc, .docx, or pdf file and title each as follows:  YourLastname_Title.
  • Nonfiction - submit original, previously unpublished stories up to 2,500 words as a .doc, .docx or pdf file and title each as follows:  YourLastname_Title.
  • Poetry submit up to three (3) original, previously unpublished poems in one document      (.doc, .docx, or pdf) and title as follows: YourLastname_NumberofPoems.

We only accept submissions via Submittable. Do not email your submissions.

If we reach our capacity, we will close submissions. So, during our open submission periods, submit early!

You may send one submission per genre per reading period. Be sure to submit to the correct genre.

We welcome simultaneous submissions, but please notify us immediately if a piece you submitted is accepted elsewhere.

We are unable to offer payment to contributors at this time.

River & South Review requests First North American Serial Rights and the right to archive our contributors’ work. All other rights revert back to the author upon publication. Please acknowledge River & South Review as the journal of first publication when placing your work elsewhere.

You may send one submission per genre per reading period. Be sure to submit to the correct genre. We welcome simultaneous submissions, but please notify us immediately if a piece you submitted is accepted elsewhere.

creative writing about river

Features of the long-term transformation of the Krasnodar reservoir, near the mouth of the Kuban River, Russia

  • Published: 19 December 2021
  • Volume 31 , pages 1895–1904, ( 2021 )

Cite this article

  • Anatoly Pogorelov 1 ,
  • Andrey Laguta 2 ,
  • Evgeny Kiselev 1 &
  • Dmitry Lipilin 1 , 3 , 4  

69 Accesses

4 Citations

Explore all metrics

The article considers the long-term (1941–2018) transformation of the Krasnodar valley reservoir, the largest in the North Caucasus. The main functions of the Krasnodar reservoir are irrigation of rice systems and flood protection of land in the Krasnodar reservoir region and the Republic of Adygea. According to topographic maps, Landsat satellite images (1974–2018) and field observations (2016–2018), four stages of transformation of the flood-plain reservoir are identified. The selected stages are characterized by both natural causes (the transformation of the filling deltas into the extended deltas, etc.) and man-made causes (runoff diversions in the delta areas, etc.). The key factor of transformation is the formation of deltas of rivers flowing into the reservoir. Each of the selected stages, against the background of a gradual reduction in the area and volume of the reservoir, is characterized by the peculiarities of the formation of river deltas with the formation of genetically homogeneous sections of delta regions. During the period of operation of the reservoir, the delta of the main Kuban River moved up to 32.4 km and took away an area of 35.4 km 2 of the reservoir. During the formation of the deltas of the Kuban and Belaya rivers, a bridge was formed on the Krasnodar reservoir. The evolution of the delta regions led to the division of the reservoir into two autonomous reservoirs. The total area of the delta regions was 85.9 km 2 by 2018, i.e., 21% of the initial area of the reservoir. The transformation of the Krasnodar reservoir leads to a decrease in its regulated volume and gradual degradation.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Price excludes VAT (USA) Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Rent this article via DeepDyve

Institutional subscriptions

Similar content being viewed by others

creative writing about river

Landscape Development of the Eşen Valley and Delta Plain (Letoôn and Patara Sites)

creative writing about river

Inland Delta and Its Two Large Rivers: Danube Plain, the Danube and Váh Rivers

creative writing about river

Desertification of the Amu Darya River Delta and Vegetation Dynamics in the Conditions of the Aral Sea Crisis

N. M. Novikova, Zh. V. Kuz’mina & N. K. Mamutov

Alekseevsky N I, Berkovich K M, Chalov R S et al. , 2012. Spatial temporal variability of channel deformations on the rivers of Russia. Geography and Natural Resources , 3: 13–21. (in Russian)

Google Scholar  

Antonenko M V, Pogorelov A V, Yeletsky Yu B, 2015. Monitoring of the Kulikovo-Kurchanskaya group of estuaries (the Kuban River delta) in the area of the licensed area of Priazovneft LLC. Environmental Protection in the Oil and Gas Complex , 11: 55–63. (in Russian)

Belchikov V A, Borshch S V, Mukhin V M et al. , 2010. Dangerous floods in the river basin. Kuban and methods of their forecasting. In: Collection: 80 Years of the Hydrometeorological Center of Russia. 1939–2010, St. Petersburg: Gidrometeoizdat, 401–122.

Berkovich K M, 2008. The principle of interaction between the flow and the channel and anthropogenic disturbances of the channel processes. Maccabean Readings, 19–27.

Chalov R S, 2016. Channel Processes (channel-study): A Tutorial. Moscow: INFRA-M, 565.

Book   Google Scholar  

Credner G R, 1878. Die deltas, ihre morphologie, geographische, verbreitung, und entstehungs bedingungen. Petermans Geographische Mitheilungen (Erganzungsland), 12: 74.

Glovis.usgs.gov, 2021. The official site of the United States Geological Survey. Available at: https://glovis.usgs.gov/ [Accessed 25 Jan. 2021].

Kbvu-fgu.ru, 2021. The official site of the Kuban Basin Water Administration of the Federal Agency of Water Resources. Available at: http://www.kbvu-fgu.ru/ . [Accessed 25 Jan. 2021].

Kondrat’ev N E, Popov I V, Snishhenko B F, 1982. Basics of Geomorphological Theory of the Channel Process. St. Petersburg: Gidrometeoizdat, 272.

Kurbatova I E, 2012. Space monitoring of negative situations in coastal zones of large water bodies. Current Problems in Remote Sensing of the Earth from Space , 9(2): 52–59. (in Russian)

Kurbatova I E, 2014. Transformation monitoring of the Krasnodar reservoir using high resolution satellite data. Current Problems in Remote Sensing of the Earth from Space , 11(3): 42–53. (in Russian)

Laguta A A, Pogorelov A V, 2018. Peculiarities of Krasnodar water reservoir silting. Evaluation based on the data of bathymetric surveys. Geographical Bulletin , 4(47): 54–66, DOI: https://doi.org/10.17072/2079-7877-2018-4-54-66 . (in Russian)

Laguta A A, Pogorelov A V, 2019. Changes in the morphometric characteristics of the Krasnodar reservoir during the period of operation (1973–2018). In: Proceedings of the International Conference «InterCarto. InterGIS», 25(2): 5–15. (in Russian)

Laguta A A, Pogorelov A V, 2019. Transformation of the Krasnodar reservoir (1941–2018). Bulletin of Higher Education Institutes North Caucasus Region. Natural Sciences , 3: 45–54. (in Russian)

Litovka F S, Bandurin M A, Vanzha V V, 2019. Ways to solve the problem of silling of the Krasnodar reservoir for rational use of water resources of floodland territories. Engineering Journal of Don , 8(59): 32–48. (in Russian)

Lurie P M, Panov V D, Tkachenko Ju Ju, 2005. Kuban River: Hydrography and Flow Regime. St. Petersburg: Gidrometeoizdat, 498.

Lurie P M, 2002. Water Resources and Water Balance of the Caucasus. St. Petersburg: Gidrometeoizdat, 506.

McFeeters S K, 1996. The use of Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) in the delineation of open water features. International Journal of Remote Sensing , 17: 1425–1432.

Article   Google Scholar  

Mihajlov V N, Mihajlova M V, Magrickij D V, 2018. Basics of River Mouths Hydrology. Moscow: Triumph Publishing, 314.

Mihajlov V N, 2001. River deltas: Structure, formation, evolution. Soros Educational Journal , 7(3): 60–66. (in Russian)

Pogorelov A V, Laguta A A, 2020. On the circulation of waters in the valley reservoir (Krasnodar reservoir). Bulletin of higher education institutes North Caucasus region. Natural Sciences , 4: 87–97. (in Russian)

Pogorelov A V, Lipilin D A, Kurnosova A S, 2017. Satellite monitoring of the Krasnodar reservoir. Geographical bulletin , 1(40): 130–137, DOI: https://doi.org/10.17072/2079-7877-2017-1-130-137 . (in Russian)

Pogorelov A V, Salpagarov A D, Kiselev E N et al. , 2007 Geoinformation method in the practice of regional physiographic studies. In: Proceedings of the Teberda State Biosphere Reserve, 45, 200.

Rules for the use of water resources of the Krasnodar reservoir, 2008. Krasnodar: Kubanvodproekt, 158.

Xu H, 2006. Modification of normalized difference water index (MNDWI) to enhance open water features in remotely sensed imagery. International Journal of Remote Sensing , 27: 3025–3033.

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Kuban State University, Krasnodar, 350040, Russia

Anatoly Pogorelov, Evgeny Kiselev & Dmitry Lipilin

Aerogematica LLC, Krasnodar, 350063, Russia

Andrey Laguta

Kuban State Agrarian University Named after I.T. Trubilin, Krasnodar, 350044, Russia

Dmitry Lipilin

Tuapse Branch of the Russian State Hydrometeorological University, Krasnodar Region, Tuapse, 352800, Russia

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Dmitry Lipilin .

Additional information

The Kuban Science Foundation in the Framework of the Scientific Project, No.MFI-20.1/123

Pogorelov Anatoly (1956–), PhD and Professor, specialized in the application of GIS in regional studies. E-mail: [email protected]

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Pogorelov, A., Laguta, A., Kiselev, E. et al. Features of the long-term transformation of the Krasnodar reservoir, near the mouth of the Kuban River, Russia. J. Geogr. Sci. 31 , 1895–1904 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11442-021-1928-7

Download citation

Received : 04 March 2021

Accepted : 13 August 2021

Published : 19 December 2021

Issue Date : December 2021

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s11442-021-1928-7

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

  • Krasnodar reservoir
  • sedimentation
  • transformation
  • delta formation
  • Find a journal
  • Publish with us
  • Track your research

The Kuban River in Russia.

Kuban River

The Kuban River in southwestern  Russia  flows from the breathtaking heights of the Greater  Caucasus Mountains , coursing through  Mount Elbrus , embarking on a scenic course. From snow-capped peaks to fertile plains, the river makes its way not just as a geographical feature but serving several communities. It supports agricultural efforts and local economies and connects towns and cities to facilitate transportation. It is a natural splendor that graces the Russian landscape. The significance of the river cannot be undermined as it has helped communities for centuries to flourish. The importance, role, and rich history of this river is a beautiful example of the synergistic relationship between nature and civilization in the northern portion of the  Eurasian  continent.

Source And Course

The Kuban River flowing through the Russian city of Krasnodar

Kuban River in Russia originates in the Greater Caucasus Mountains with its glacier-fed source near Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in the Caucasus and also the highest mountain in Europe. It originates in two outflows, UlluKam and Uchkulan, flowing northward through narrow gorges and rapids. It reaches the Stavropol Upland and then turns westward in a broad marshy floodplain. From the floodplain, it merges into the  Sea of Azov , part of the larger  Black Sea  Basin. As the river flows 540 miles north and west from its source and reaches Temryuk Bay in the Sea of Azov, it goes up to Krasnodar. Major cities along the river are Karachayevsk, Cherkessk, Nevinnomyssk, Armavir, Novokubansk, Kropotkin, Ust-Labinsk, Temryuk, and Krasnodar. The river is a vital resource in the region, providing water for irrigation and serving as a transportation route.

Brief History

Ancient Greeks called the river Hypanis, which later became the Kuban River. Being a historical-geographical region in northwestern Caucasia, the region was part of the North Caucasus Line during the Russian conquest of the Caucasus. In 1860, the Kuban area grew as a political and administrative region after the Black Sea Cossacks united with the eastern regions of Kuban to form the Kuban oblast. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the native "Kuban Cossacks" occupied the basin. The region on the left bank of the Kuban River or the Transkuban was added to the Kuban oblast. The region went through transitions over the years. After being revamped in the 1920s, today, the Kuban territory equates to the Krasnodar Krai (since 1937) and the Karachai-Cherkess Autonomous oblast on the upper reaches of the Kuban River which was inhabited by the Cherkessian (Circassian) tribes.

The Kuban River is 563 miles (906 km) long from its source to the delta, draining 23,600 square miles (61,000 square km). Some of its main geographical features include its glacier-fed mountainous origin, fertile plains, valleys, gorges, deltas, and estuaries. The river originates in the major mountain ranges in Eurasia (slopes of Mount Elbrus). The glacier-fed water source adds to the picturesque terrain. It forms into a river at the merging point of its two tributaries (Ullukam and Uchkulam), then flows in a northward direction, winding its way through the rugged terrain of the North Caucasus. 

As it descends from the mountains and enters the North Caucasus Plain, the terrain transitions from rugged highlands to fertile lowlands, best for agricultural productivity owing to rich alluvial soils nourished by the river's waters. It continues to flow, passing through valleys and gorges. Once the Kuban River meets the Sea of Azov, it forms a delta and estuary characterized by wetlands and marshes. The Kuban River emptied into the Azov and the Black Seas until the nineteenth century. Later, due to rising grounds, the river began draining into the Azov Sea. Main tributaries flowing into the Kuban flow from the left and originate in the Caucasus Mountains. These tributaries include the Bolshoy Zelenchuk, Maly Zelenchuk, Urup, Laba, Belaya, and Pshish. 

Climate And Hydrology

Kuban River in winter.

The Kuban lowland region, with the Kuban River as the main river, has a continental climate, more warm and humid, with average temperatures of 10 to 12°C. Characterized by cold winters and hot, long summers, most precipitation occurs from May to July. The summers are best for cultivating subtropical crops such as rice, fruits, and grapes. There are floods that occur throughout the year, with an average of six to seven floods due to rains and thawing of the ice in winters and summers. 

The water level changes and goes either up or down by sixteen feet, with the highest levels in July and the lowest levels in February. The water salinity increases in the delta region, varying between 50 and 400 milligrams per liter, and may sometimes go up to 1000 milligrams per liter in certain regions. The average turbidity of the river is 682 grams per cubic meter. 

Closeup of arrowhead flowers that grow along the banks of the Kuban River.

The Kuban River flows through the Caucasus mixed forests in the south, the Crimean Submediterranean forests in the central part, and a  Steppe  region in the north. In the southern region, the mixed forests include rich tree species. At mid-elevation, the landscape includes trees such as Georgian oak  (Quercus iberica) , sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa), Oriental beech  (Fagus orientalis) , hornbeam  (Carpinus caucasica) . The forests higher up, as well as the Crimean Submediterranean forests, have spruce  (Picea orientalis)  and fir  (Abies nordmanniana)  trees. Most of the vegetation at the delta includes grassweeds, sedges, cattails, bur-reed, and bushes of reeds and may also include grass rush, arrowhead, tape-grass, and other water-loving plants. Rich underwater vegetation such as pondweeds, stonewort algae, lilies, lotus, and hornworts grow in the estuary region.

A little heron feeding on a fish at the mouth of the Kuban River.

The Kuban delta, with abundant estuaries, has a rich diversity of benthic organisms and plankton. Over 400 zooplankton species dominate the area, including species such as copepods, cladocerans, rotifers, worms, mollusks, and many more such tiny organisms that are excellent food sources for fish. The fish fauna of the Kuban includes over 65 species from different families. Some of the common fish are of the genera Chondrostoma, Squalius, Romanogobio, and Gobio. Other prominent species and genera include carp, roach, bream, pike, perch, ruffe, Chalcalburnus, Sprattus, and Mugil. Newer species found over the last decade are the grass carp and silver carp. The river also has some endemic species, including Kuban barbel  (Barbus kubanicus) , Kuban long-barbelled gudgeon  (R. pentatrichus) , Little Kuban gudgeon  (Romanogobio parvus) , Kuban nase  (Chondrostoma kubanicum) , Gobio kubanicus, Sabanejewia kubanica, and Oxynoemacheilus merga. 

Migratory birds such as waterfowl, including gray herons, swans, pelicans, wild geese, ducks, cormorants, and pelicans, inhabit the Kuban Delta and estuaries. Other abundant bird species are birds of prey such as falcons and other animals, like wild cats and foxes. Muskrats were introduced into the watershed in the twentieth century for commercial fur production.

Significance

People fishing in the Kuban River.

The Kuban River has helped the North Caucasus region, with communities thriving along its banks for centuries, providing its waters for various purposes, from drinking to various other activities. The region supports the economy by giving locals facilities to grow crops. Besides being a famous rice-cultivating region, it supports the cultivation of other grains, vegetables, and fruits. The development of commerce, trade, and transportation has been significant due to the river. There are dams and power stations along the river that provide electricity to the region, for instance, the Krasnodar Thermal Power Plant. The Krasnodar irrigation reservoir also relies on the Kuban River. Wetlands and marshes along the river provide important habitats for diverse wildlife species. Tourism in the regions along the river has also grown over the years, with visitors flocking to scenic points along the river for activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.

The Kuban River is a vital water source right from the Caucasus Mountains to other areas, including Krasnodar Krai, Karachay–Cherkess Republic, the Republic of Adygea, and all other regions it flows through. The landscape and terrain along the river add to its natural beauty and cultural significance, attracting many tourists to these regions. The Kuban River is not only a lifeline for agriculture, trade, commerce, and transportation but also home to diverse wildlife in these regions.

More in Bodies of Water

Lake Bangweulu

Lake Bangweulu

Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge near Fort Peck Lake.

Fort Peck Lake

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park.

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Lake Kyoga, Uganda.

Lake Maracaibo

Houseboats during sunrise near Wahweap Marina on Lake Powell. Image credit Paul Brady Photography via Shutterstock.

12 Crystal-Clear Lakes In The United States You Have To See

Aerial view of a gorgeous white sand beach in Thassos Island, Greece.

Thracian Sea

South shore of the Kokemaenjoki River.

Kokemaenjoki River

Download GPX file for this article

  • 1 Understand
  • 2.1 By plane
  • 2.2 By train
  • 3.1 By public transportation
  • 4.1 Museums
  • 4.2 Monuments
  • 4.3 Religious Buildings
  • 5.2 Theatres
  • 5.4 Entertainment complexes
  • 5.5 Water amusement parks
  • 5.6 Aquarium
  • 6.1 Bazaars
  • 6.2 Shopping malls
  • 7.1.1 Fast Food
  • 7.2 Mid-range
  • 7.3 Splurge
  • 9.1.1 Hostels
  • 9.1.2 Hotels
  • 9.2 Mid-range
  • 9.3 Splurge
  • 10.1 Consulates

Krasnodar is the capital of Krasnodar Krai in southern Russia, with a popolulation in 2018 of just under 900,000. Its main industries are based on agriculture and food.

Understand [ edit ]

In the 18th century Russia expanded south under Catherine the Great, driving out Ottoman Turkey from control of the areas north of the Black Sea. The city that grew up here was called Yekaterinodar , Catherine's Gift, and became a diverse, entrepreneurial, attractive settlement. It was fought over in the Russian civil war, and since the Bolsheviks won, they got to rename it "Krasnodar", gift of the Reds. In 1942 / 43 it was occupied by the Nazis, with much destruction and death. However many of the old town buildings have been restored, though no-one could mistake the city's landmark hyperboloid tower for tsarist architecture.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

From the airport, trolleybus 7 (1 hour) and minibuses 53 and 15 (40 minutes) operate service to main train station. Buses 1 and 1A operate service to the city centre. A taxi from the airport to the city centre should cost RUB500.

By train [ edit ]

Several trains per day operate between Krasnodar and the Black Sea port city of Novorossiysk (RUB650, 3 hours), Rostov-on-Don (RUB600, 3-4 hours), and Volgograd (RUB900, 14-16 hours).

By bus [ edit ]

Buses operate approximately every 3 hours between Krasnodar and the Black Sea port city of Novorossiysk (RUB350, 3.5 hours). Buses operate hourly to the Russian resort town of Anapa (RUB350, 3.5 hours). There are 6 buses per day to/from Rostov-on-Don (RUB400, 4-6 hours). There is also a daily bus to Sochi (6 hours).

Get around [ edit ]

Map

By public transportation [ edit ]

Krasnodar has a dense network of trams, trolleybuses, city buses, taxis, the boat across the Kuban river and marshrutkas. Public transport fees are generally approximately RUB30.

See [ edit ]

Krasnaya (Red) Street is the main street of the city. Part of the street is closed to vehicles during evenings, when it becomes the center of nightlife.

Theater Square has largest splash fountain in Europe .

Museums [ edit ]

  • 45.01759 38.9678 1 The Krasnodar Regional Art Museum Of Kovalenko , 13 Krasnaya St , ☏ +7 861 262-95-04 .  
  • 45.01759 38.9678 2 Krasnodar Regional Showroom of Fine Arts . Includes many famous works of Kuban and Russian and European artists from as early as 16th century.  
  • 45.019464 39.002994 3 Museum of Military Technologies Oruzhie Pobedy , v . Popular with kids that like to climb on the tanks.  

Monuments [ edit ]

  • Monument to Catherine the Great
  • Sculpture of Walking Dogs - Mira 35 - Built in 2007, it was inspired by a famous Russian poet that commented on the number of dogs in Krasnodar.
  • Monument to Shurik and Lida
  • Monument of Cossacks writing a letter to the Turkish Sultan
  • Monument to Kuban Cossacks
  • Monument Avrora
  • Monument A.S. Pushkin
  • Obelisk In Honor Of The 200th Anniversary Of The Kuban Cossack Army
  • I.E. Repin Monument
  • Monument A.V. Suvorov

Religious Buildings [ edit ]

  • St. Catherine's Cathedral
  • Alexander Nevskiy Cathedral
  • St. George's Church
  • St. Elijah Church
  • Holy Trinity Cathedral
  • Chapel of Alexander Nevskiy
  • Church of St. Nicholas
  • Church of the Holy Libor
  • St. Kazan Church

Do [ edit ]

  • Climb the steel lattice hyperboloid tower built by Vladimir Grigorievich Shukhov in 1928. The tower likely wouldn't pass a safety inspection in most first world countries, but it is the best place to get a view of the city. The tower is near the circus.
  • Watch football at Krasnodar Stadium. The home team is FC Krasnodar who play in the Russian Premier League, the top tier of Russian football. It was opened in 2016 with a capacity of 34,000. It's on the northeast edge of the city, 4 km from Krasnodar-1 main railway station (further out than the old "Kuban" Stadium). Take a bus to Vostochno-Kruglikovshaya Street.

Parks [ edit ]

  • Rozhdestvenskiy Park of Culture and Leisure
  • The Solnechny Ostrov (Sunny Island) Park
  • Safari Park - Includes a zoo, but the animals are treated poorly
  • Chistyakovskiy Grove Park
  • Botanical Garden of Professor I. S. Kosenko
  • City Botanical Garden
  • Park of the 30th anniversary of the Victory
  • City Park of Culture and Leisure
  • Marshal Zhukov's Park
  • Training Botanical Garden
  • Park Druzhby

Theatres [ edit ]

Most are on Krasnaya Street

  • Drama Theatre - Gorky , Ploshchad' Oktjabr'skoj Revoljucii, 2 .  
  • Children’s Puppet Theatre
  • Philharmonic Hall
  • Operetta Theatre

Cinema [ edit ]

  • Avrora Kino , Krasnaya St 169 . Built in 1967. Two movie screens, including one with a capacity of 1,200. Also includes a cafe and pizzeria.  

Entertainment complexes [ edit ]

Around 20 entertainment complexes are open 24 hours/day. These complexes usually include bowling alleys, shopping centers, video arcades, casinos, and restaurants.

Water amusement parks [ edit ]

Aquarium [ edit ].

  • Ocean Park Aquarium , 161 Stasova St, inside Galaktika Mall . A 3,000 square meter aquarium. There are several tanks of fish to look at, including a tunnel-tank that patrons can walk under, allowing tiny sharks to swim over your head. It is best to visit during feeding time when the carnivorous fish make a gruesomely interesting scene. Be sire to feed the turtles in the koi pond -Use the RUB10 vending machine to purchase fish food. RUB400 .  

Buy [ edit ]

Bazaars [ edit ].

  • Vostochniy Rinok , 161 Stasova St . This outdoor assortment of booths offers the best in fresh produce and other domestic products. Be prepared to haggle/bargain, especially over non-produce items.  

Shopping malls [ edit ]

  • Galaktika , 182 Stasova St ( #10 tram north to the end of the line (Khladokombinat stop) ). A more Western-style shopping experience. Galaktika includes hundreds of clothing stores, sports stores, computer stores, and an "Okey" store (which is comparable to a Walmart). Galaktika also features an aquarium, a respectable food court, and other diversions.  

Eat [ edit ]

Krasnodar has many restaurants, pubs, eateries, sushi bars, hookah bars, pizzerias, coffee/tea houses and fast food places. The predominant Krasnodar cuisine is a mix of south Russian, Georgian, Armenian and Greek flavors with emphasis on fresh local grown produce minimally spiced and mostly flavored by parsley, dill and cilantro.

Budget [ edit ]

  • Lyubo-Dorogo . A popular local cafe chain. Appetizers: RUB90-280; Main courses: RUB150-350; Desserts: RUB70-110 .  

Fast Food [ edit ]

There are several American fast food restaurants including Subway (5/2 Zipovskaya St, 149 Krasnaya St, 39 Krainyaya St, 38 Mira St), McDonald's (100 Dzerzhinsky St), and KFC (104 Uralskaya St)

Mid-range [ edit ]

  • Borshberry , Krasnaya St 182 . A great place to have borsch and beer.  
  • Stan , Kubanskaya Naberezhnaya St 15 ( Along the river ), ☏ +7 918 330 1616 . Traditional food and atmosphere. Live traditional music. Food prepared on an open fire.  
  • Shanti , Ural'skaya St 79/1 ( SBS Megamoll ), ☏ +7 861 201-92-88 . The best place to have delicious food, fun and entertainment. Karaoke and night club.  

Splurge [ edit ]

  • Skotina , Suvorova St 64 , ☏ +7 861 299 9594 . Meat restaurant ans steakhouse with a great selection of wines and craft beers.  

Drink [ edit ]

Many popular bars are clustered off the southern end of Krasnaya (Red) Street.

  • Amsterdambar , Krasnoarmeyskaya ul. 64 , ☏ +7 861 251 1698 .  
  • Grey Bear Pub , Stavropolskaya St 133 . The slogan here is 'beer, beef, and sport'.  
  • Killfish , Krasnoarmeyskaya ul. 52 , ☏ +7 800 333 0977 .  
  • McKey Pub & Restaurant , Krasnykh Partizan 218 , ☏ +7 861 259 6635 . Irish pub with a great atmosphere and beer selection.  
  • Mr. Drunke Bar , Krasnoarmeyskaya ul. 58 , ☏ +7 861 299 9594 .  
  • Sgt. Pepper's Bar , ul. Chapaeva 94 , ☏ +7 861 944 1399 .  

Sleep [ edit ]

Hostels [ edit ].

  • Bla Bla Hostel , Rashpilevskaya ul. 106 ( In the centre of the city ), ☏ +7 861 221 2993 , [email protected] . Dorm bed: RUB500 .  
  • Like Hostel Krasnodar , Dlinnaya ul. 128 ( In the centre of the city ), ☏ +7 928 258 4777 . Dorm bed: RUB500 .  
  • Shukov Hostel , Kalinina 468 ( In the centre of the city ), ☏ +7 989 275 4288 , [email protected] . Modern and clean hostel. 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, trendy rooms with lockers and sockets. Orthopedic mattresses, linen and towels .  

Connect [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

  • Novorossiysk - Black Sea port city
  • Rostov-on-Don

creative writing about river

  • Has custom banner
  • Has map markers
  • Airport listing
  • Has mapframe
  • Do listing with no coordinates
  • Buy listing with no coordinates
  • Eat listing with no coordinates
  • Sleep listing with no coordinates
  • Usable cities
  • Usable articles
  • City articles
  • Has Geo parameter
  • Krasnodar Krai and Adygea
  • All destination articles
  • Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Kuban River

The Kuban is a river in the Northwest Caucasus region of European Russia. It flows mostly through Krasnodar Krai for 660 kilometres but also in the Karachay–Cherkess Republic, Stavropol Krai and the Republic of Adygea. The Kuban flows 870 kilometres north and west from its source near Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus Mountains, eventually reaching Temryuk Bay in the Sea of Azov. It is navigable up to Krasnodar. Major cities on the river are Karachayevsk, Cherkessk, Nevinnomyssk, Armavir, Novokubansk, Kropotkin, Ust-Labinsk, Krasnodar and Temryuk. Despite its name, Slavyansk-na-Kubani lies not on the Kuban River, but on its distributary the Protoka.

creative writing about river

More information and contact

Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuban_(river)

Address Russia

Coordinates 44°56'36.247" N 41°14'13.605" E

Sygic Travel - A Travel Guide in Your Pocket

Get it on Google Play

More interesting places

  • Privacy Policy
  • STOCK 360° TRAVEL VIDEOS

IMAGES

  1. English

    creative writing about river

  2. Essay on River in English for Students and Children

    creative writing about river

  3. River Writes: Amazon.co.uk: 9780993566325: Books

    creative writing about river

  4. Life Is A River

    creative writing about river

  5. Describe the River Writing Activity (teacher made)

    creative writing about river

  6. The Journey of a River

    creative writing about river

COMMENTS

  1. How To Describe a River in Writing (100+ Examples & Words)

    It was a cosmic river, a flow of time and space that defied all laws of nature. Final Thoughts: How to Describe a River in Writing. Capturing the essence of a river in writing is an art that enriches any narrative. Explore more creative writing tips and techniques on our website. Read This Next: How To Describe a Lake in Writing (100+ Examples ...

  2. How To Describe A River In Writing (10 Best Ways)

    Conveying the speed and rhythm of the river. Detailing changes in current and water dynamics. Exploring the impact of weather on the river's behavior. Addressing Seasonal Changes. Describing the river in different seasons. Historical and Cultural Context. Crafting a Narrative. Building a story around the river.

  3. Setting Description Entry: River

    Setting is much more than just a backdrop, which is why choosing the right one and describing it well is so important. To help with this, we have expanded and integrated this thesaurus into our online library at One Stop For Writers.Each entry has been enhanced to include possible sources of conflict, people commonly found in these locales, and setting-specific notes and tips, and the ...

  4. Writing the River

    All ages and writing styles are welcome, including short prose, formal verse or one's own verse. It offers an opportunity to create, and a platform to share a river connection. WTTR welcomes new river related meanings and links through creative writing. It is also substantially different from the rest of FMR's work.

  5. 10 Words to Describe a Fast-Flowing River

    "The gurgling flow of the river gave way to a thunderous waterfall." How it Adds Description. Sometimes when a river flows quickly, it creates bubbling sounds which many can find to be quite soothing. If the river in your writing brings calm, try describing it as "gurgling"! 7. Surge Definition. Moving quickly and powerfully.

  6. River

    River. - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing. River. White lace amid the evergreens comes the happy river. By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, December 29, 2020 . In echo to the song of the sky, the river sings soulful blues. By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, December 29, 2020 . The river is mother to this land and ...

  7. PDF Describe the scene from your position on the bank of a river

    Describe the scene from your position on the bank of a river — English GCSE Descriptive Writing. Mauve light breaks through the solitary clouds hanging in the windless sky, reflecting ofthe calm water. Ripples radiate through the water from the dark silhouette of a duck moving in slow motion. The water carefully parts around the buttress of a ...

  8. Glen, Stream, River: 58 Words to Describe Bodies of Water

    A bayou (#19) is very slow moving water, generally a tributary of a lake or river that is sluggish and marshy and filled with vegetation. A tributary (#20) for that matter is any stream that flows into a larger main stream or river, while; a distributary (#21) is the opposite: a stream that branches off from the main river and flows away from it.

  9. 10 Words to Describe a Calm River

    The way you describe your setting can have an impact on how your characters respond or react to the events in your plot. Even if you are just describing a calm river in order to help the reader visualize the setting, it's important to use descriptive words that tap into the senses a bit more. If you need some words to describe a calm river, try using one of the 10 below to help your reader ...

  10. Write to the River

    Write to the River is a creative writing project to inspire artistic engagement with our river environment. We invite you to share an original poem or short prose response to seasonal images along the Upper Mississippi River. ... Our next photo prompt and call for creative writing submissions will be in the December issue of our e-newsletter ...

  11. Poetry & Creative Writing About Rivers

    Read poetry and creative writing written about California's rivers. These poets and writers and the words they create will enrich your love of rivers. Read poetry and creative writing written about California's rivers.

  12. PDF Writing Rivers

    also writes a blog to share her creative ideas, practice and pedagogy on her journey as a Literacy for Pleasure teacher. She is also participating in the creative writing pathway of the MA Children's Literature at Goldsmith's University. Principle(s) in focus: 1. Building a community of writers. 2. Reading, sharing and talking about writing.

  13. PDF Rivers of life

    Another idea to support creative writing, focusing on the beauty of rivers, is to encourage the children to use sentences of 3 when describing. Following your visit to a river, flipchart all the ways the children felt when they were there and what they saw/heard. Then shared write the ideas in the following format: • what you can see

  14. Ultimate List of Water Words for Descriptive Writing

    Let's face it, water words are something that will come up in your writing at least once. Why not make sure you're using the right one? Find options here.

  15. River Creative Writing Examples That Really Inspire

    River Creative Writings Samples For Students. 10 samples of this type. If you're looking for an applicable way to streamline writing a Creative Writing about River, WowEssays.com paper writing service just might be able to help you out. For starters, you should browse our large directory of free samples that cover most diverse River Creative ...

  16. Celebrating life around river in creative words

    The creative-writing workshops are being led by award-winning poet Harry Man at three locations with links to the River Skerne - Aycliffe Village Hall, the Freemasons' Hall in Darlington, and Ceddesfeld Hall in Sedgefield. The first workshop was held on Saturday afternoon at Aycliffe Village Hall.

  17. 140+ Best Adjectives for River, Words to Describe River

    Here are Some Useful Words to describe River with Meanings; Majestic - grand, imposing body of water. Serene - calm, peaceful flow. Rushing - fast, turbulent current. Muddy - murky, opaque appearance. Sparkling - shining, glimmering surface. Crystal-clear - transparent, pristine water. Meandering - winding, twisting course.

  18. Describe the River Writing Activity (teacher made)

    Help children be creative and improve their descriptive writing with the help of this Describe the River Writing Activity. The children can look at the picture of the river on the worksheet and choose some words from the word bank to help them describe the forest. Once they have chosen their words, they can start writing down their ideas.

  19. River and South Review

    River and South Review seeks to be a home for work that evokes a visceral reaction, encourages continued conversation, captures the adventures of life, and spurs our readers to go find their own adventures to write about.As writers, we want writing that makes us wish we had written it. We want writing that makes us think and wonder; laugh and cry; sigh and scream; nod our heads yes and no. We ...

  20. PDF Features of the longterm transformation of the

    4. The fourth stage (2005-present): The river flows into the Kuban River; the beginning of the formation of the delta extension of the Kuban River in the open waters; fading during the phase of the Belaya River delta extension into the Krasnodar reservoir. The length of the dam is 32.4 km, and the height is 3.5-7.5 m (Kurbatova, 2014).

  21. Kuban River

    The Kuban River is 563 miles (906 km) long from its source to the delta, draining 23,600 square miles (61,000 square km). Some of its main geographical features include its glacier-fed mountainous origin, fertile plains, valleys, gorges, deltas, and estuaries. The river originates in the major mountain ranges in Eurasia (slopes of Mount Elbrus ...

  22. Krasnodar

    Krasnodar has a dense network of trams, trolleybuses, city buses, taxis, the boat across the Kuban river and marshrutkas. Public transport fees are generally approximately RUB30. See [edit] Krasnaya (Red) Street is the main street of the city. Part of the street is closed to vehicles during evenings, when it becomes the center of nightlife.

  23. Kuban River in Russia

    The Kuban is a river in the Northwest Caucasus region of European Russia. It flows mostly through Krasnodar Krai for 660 kilometres but also in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, Stavropol Krai and the Republic of Adygea. The Kuban flows 870 kilometres north and west from its source near Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus Mountains, eventually reaching Temryuk Bay in the Sea of Azov.