Structure:
* Five lines: A limerick always has five lines.
* Rhyme scheme: The rhyme scheme is AABBA. This means the first, second, and fifth lines rhyme, and the third and fourth lines rhyme.
Meter:
* Anapestic tetrameter: The first, second, and fifth lines have eight syllables, arranged in an anapest pattern (two unstressed syllables followed by a stressed syllable).
* Anapestic dimeter: The third and fourth lines have six syllables, also in an anapest pattern.
Content:
* Humorous: Limericks are often humorous, though they can also be used for other purposes.
* Subject matter: The subject matter of a limerick can be anything, but it should be something that can be described in a humorous or interesting way.
Here's a breakdown:
* Line 1: Anapest tetrameter, rhymes with lines 2, 4, and 5.
* Line 2: Anapest tetrameter, rhymes with lines 1, 4, and 5.
* Line 3: Anapest dimeter, rhymes with line 4.
* Line 4: Anapest dimeter, rhymes with line 3.
* Line 5: Anapest tetrameter, rhymes with lines 1, 2, and 4.
Example:
There once was a fellow named Mike,
Whose jokes were so bad, they would strike
A chill down your spine,
And make you repine,
For the day he was born, that's no like.
Remember: While these are the main rules, limericks can be playful. You can bend the rules a little for effect, but keeping the basic structure and rhyme scheme will help you write a successful limerick.