An acrostic is a type of poem or word puzzle where the first letter of each line or word spells out a specific word or message when read vertically. This literary form can be used for creative expression, educational purposes, or as a mnemonic device. Acrostics can be simple or complex, depending on the length of the word and the creativity of the writer. Acrostics are often used in various contexts, such as in children's literature to help young readers learn new vocabulary or in educational settings to aid memory retention. They can also be found in music and art, where artists use the technique to convey deeper meanings or themes.