Poetic forms

English

Definition

Specific types or categories of poems defined by their structure, rhyme scheme, meter, or subject matter. Each form has its own rules and traditions that poets either follow strictly or intentionally break for effect.

Examples

  • Sonnet: 14 lines, typically about love or beauty (Shakespeare, Petrarch)
  • Limerick: five lines with an AABBA rhyme scheme, usually humorous
  • Villanelle: 19 lines with two repeating refrains, like Dylan Thomas's "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night"

Related Terms

Poetic form and structure Poetic terms Rhythm and sound Poetic devices

Study This Concept

Practice poetic forms with free review games in these units:

Creative Writing Unit 5: Poetry and Verse