Read the classics. Before writing your own story or poem which uses personification, read examples by writers like Emily Dickinson, Walt Whitman and Dr. Seuss.
Analyze word choices. Dissecting works by other authors allows you to understand how they utilize personification, and other literary devices, in their writing.
Interpret meaning. Think about what the author is trying to convey by giving personality to objects. Every person's analysis is a little bit different; there are are multiple interpretations for "The Cat and the Fiddle," including one pertaining to Queen Elizabeth I of England and her court.
Choose random every day objects from around your house. A few examples might be an alarm clock, an orange, a teacup, a ceramic figurine, a purse, a chair or a coat hanger.
Place the objects on a table or desk. Make sure there is nothing else on the table.
Analyze each object. Ask yourself what the object feels like, looks like. Think of its angles, curves, thickness and texture. Examine its color and make note of its vibrancy or paleness. Pay attention to its weight and heartiness. Make note of its delicateness or sturdiness. Ask yourself what the object would look like if it were a human. For example, a coat hanger might be a tall, elegant woman, whereas a chair might be a hefty, rigid man.
Make a list of all the words that come to mind for each object. Include personality traits like happy, fierce, obnoxious and sad.
Choose the one object from your list that seems the most human to you.
Imagine what life would be like if you were that object. For example, if you were an alarm clock, your mornings might be full of anxiety because you are jolted from sleep every day, or they might be joyful so you dance with excitement.
Free write. Free writing is when you write whatever comes to mind. Don't worry about plot or story line; just write from the perspective of your object. If you get stuck, start with your object's daily routine. Before you know it, your object's personality will shine through.
Read through your free write draft. Underline phrases that stand out.
Formulate a plotline from your rough draft. An example may be the alarm clock is getting older. His internal parts are creaking and he wants to retire, but his owner depends on him.
Rewrite. Take your best nouns, verbs and adjectives and use them to create a well-rounded personality for your object as you revise your story or poem. if you are new to writing poetry, try following the same format of a poem by one of your favorite poets.