1. Form: Free verse does not follow a specific form or pattern. It can have any number of lines, and the lines can be of any length. Formal verse, on the other hand, has a definite structure. It may have a specific number of lines, a specific meter, and a specific rhyme scheme.
2. Rhythm: Free verse does not have a regular rhythm or meter. The poet can use any rhythm that they want. Formal verse, on the other hand, has a regular rhythm or meter. The poet must use the same rhythm or meter throughout the poem.
3. Rhyme: Free verse does not have to rhyme. The poet can use rhyme if they want, but it is not required. Formal verse, on the other hand, often has a rhyme scheme. The poet must use the same rhyme scheme throughout the poem.
4. Content: Free verse can be about any topic. The poet can express any thoughts or feelings that they want. Formal verse, on the other hand, is often about traditional topics such as love, nature, or death.
5. Audience: Free verse is often more accessible to a wider audience. It is easier to understand and appreciate than formal verse. Formal verse, on the other hand, is often more challenging to understand and appreciate. It requires the reader to have a greater knowledge of poetry and its conventions.
Overall, free verse and formal verse are two very different styles of poetry. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The poet must decide which style is best suited for the poem that they are writing.