Here's why:
* Ballad structure is flexible: Ballads are defined more by their content and style than their strict form.
* Traditional ballads: These were often passed down orally, so their length and structure varied greatly.
* Modern ballads: These can have any number of stanzas, depending on the poet's choice.
Key elements of a ballad:
* Narrative: They tell a story, often of love, adventure, or tragedy.
* Simple language: Use straightforward vocabulary and rhythm.
* Repetition: Common features include refrains, repeated lines, or stanzas.
* Folk origins: Many ballads trace back to folk traditions, but the genre has evolved over time.
So, don't worry about counting stanzas. Focus on the elements that make a ballad!