is it haram to write poems?

1) If the poetry is within the parameters of Shariah then it will be permissible, for example, it encompasses the oneness of Allah, His praises, encouragement to obey Him, words of wisdom, and advices or praises of Nabi alaihis salaam, mentioning of his miracles so that the love in ones heart increases for him and the inclination of the heart increases toadopt his life style etc. All types of permissable poetry are commendable as long as it does not pre-occupy a person to the extent that all his time is spent in compiling poems and there is no time for recitation of the Holy Quraan and to educate himself on other deeni matters which are more important. (Roohul Ma'aani vol.10 pg. 220 & 226, Surah Ash-shu'araa, verse 219-227)

2) The best names to keep are the names of the Prophet alaihis salaaam and thereafter the names of the Sahaba radiyallahu anhum. It is also mentioned in a hadith that the best names to keep are Abdullah and Abdur Rahmaan.

and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

Mufti Ebrahim Desai