1. Line Length and Stanza Structure:
* Fixed forms: These forms have specific rules about the number of lines, syllables, and rhyme schemes in a stanza. For example, a sonnet has 14 lines, typically in iambic pentameter, with a specific rhyme scheme.
* Free verse: Unlike fixed forms, free verse does not follow strict rules of line length, stanza breaks, or rhyme. However, it still employs poetic techniques to create rhythm, imagery, and meaning.
2. Rhyme and Meter:
* Rhyme scheme: Refers to the pattern of rhyming words within a poem. Some common rhyme schemes include ABAB, AABB, and ABCB.
* Meter: Refers to the rhythmic pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables within a line of poetry. Common meters include iambic pentameter (five pairs of unstressed and stressed syllables) and trochaic tetrameter (four pairs of stressed and unstressed syllables).
3. Repetition and Sound Devices:
* Repetition: The use of repeated words, phrases, or lines for emphasis and rhythm.
* Alliteration: The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words (e.g., "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers").
* Assonance: The repetition of vowel sounds within words (e.g., "The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain").
* Consonance: The repetition of consonant sounds within words (e.g., "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers").
Examples of Structured Forms:
* Sonnet: 14 lines, iambic pentameter, specific rhyme scheme.
* Haiku: Three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable count.
* Villanelle: 19 lines with five tercets and a concluding quatrain.
* Ode: A poem that celebrates a specific subject.
* Ballad: A narrative poem often about love, adventure, or tragedy.
Benefits of Structured Forms:
* Provides a framework: Structures act as a guide, allowing the poet to focus on content and imagery.
* Enhances rhythm and sound: The rules of meter and rhyme create a musical effect.
* Creates a sense of order: Structure can evoke feelings of harmony and balance.
* Facilitates memorization: Structured forms can be easier to remember.
However, it's important to remember:
* Not all poetry adheres to structured forms.
* Free verse poetry can be just as powerful and effective.
* Choosing the right form depends on the poet's intention and the subject matter.
Understanding structured forms allows you to appreciate the artistry involved in poetry and to better understand the choices poets make.