What is a 14 line poem called? You may ask. Well, it’s a sonnet! This poetic form is renowned for its structure, often consisting of three quatrains and a concluding couplet. But the sonnet is not just any 14-line poem, it has a rich history and a subtle complexity that has captured the imagination of poets for centuries.
The sonnet first appeared in Italy in the 13th century and quickly spread throughout Europe. It reached its height of popularity in the 16th and 17th centuries when poets like William Shakespeare, John Donne, and Edmund Spenser took up the form and left an indelible mark on literary history. What makes the sonnet so captivating is not only its formal structure but its ability to convey a wide range of emotions and ideas in its strict metrical and rhyme scheme.
Over time, the sonnet has come to be associated with themes of love, loss, and longing. But it is not limited to these subjects. Rather, it is a flexible form that can be used to explore anything from politics to the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just starting out, the sonnet is a form worth exploring. Its wealth of history and potential for creative expression make it a valuable tool for poets of all stripes.
Types of Poetic Forms
Poetry is a beautiful and artistic form of literature. Every poet has their own style, and they often use various poetic forms to express their thoughts. The use of specific poetic forms; meter, rhyme, and structure, can give poetry a unique feeling or tone, making it more impactful on the reader. The 14 line poem, also known as the sonnet, is one of the most popular and influential forms of poetry.
- Sonnet: This form originated in Italy during the Renaissance period. The structure of a sonnet comprises of fourteen lines, with ten syllables in each, following an end rhyme scheme. The most common rhyme patterns are ABAB CDCD EFEF GG or ABBA ABBA CDE CDE or CDCDCD.
- Villanelle: This form consists of five stanzas, each with three lines and a final stanza of four lines. The first and third lines of the first stanza are alternated throughout the poem, ending with both of them being repeated in the last two lines of the final stanza. The rhyme scheme of a Villanelle poem is ABA ABA ABA ABA ABA ABAA.
- Sestina: This is a complex form of poetry, comprised of thirty-nine lines, arranged in six sestets and a final tercet. The six end-words of the first sestet’s line are repeated in a specific pattern throughout the poem to create a highly structured and technical poem.
Sometimes, the reason for using a specific poetic form in a poem is simply to pay homage to the history of poetry or to add complexity and challenge to the poet’s work. It is important to understand the different forms of poetry in order to appreciate and fully grasp the underlying messages that the poets are trying to convey. By understanding the different forms of poetry, readers can delve deeper into the meaning and emotion conveyed by the poet.
Here’s a table for quick reference for common poetic forms:
| Poetic Form | # of Lines | Rhyme Scheme | Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sonnet | 14 | ABAB CDCD EFEF GG or ABBA ABBA CDE CDE or CDCDCD | Ten syllables per line |
| Villanelle | 19 | ABA ABA ABA ABA ABA ABAA | Alternating refrains |
| Sestina | 39 | Various complex patterns | 6 seastets and final tercet |
History of 14 Line Poems
A 14 line poem is known as a sonnet and has a long and rich history dating back to the 13th century. Originally, it was an Italian form of poetry called the “sonetto,” which translates to “little song” in English. The sonnet was popularized in the 16th century by the Italian poet Petrarch, who wrote a collection of love sonnets to his beloved Laura. His work inspired many other poets and the sonnet became widely used across Europe.
In the 16th century, the sonnet form was introduced to England by Sir Thomas Wyatt and Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey. This form became particularly popular during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, with poets such as William Shakespeare and Sir Philip Sidney using it to express their thoughts and emotions.
Characteristics of 14 Line Poems
- A sonnet is made up of 14 lines, which are typically written in iambic pentameter, a rhythmic pattern of five stressed and unstressed syllables.
- The poem usually follows a specific rhyme scheme, with the most common being ABAB CDCD EFEF GG.
- The structure of a sonnet is divided into two parts: the first eight lines, called the octave, and the remaining six lines, called the sestet.
- The octave usually presents a situation or problem, while the sestet offers a resolution or conclusion.
- The sonnet is often used to explore themes related to love, beauty, time, and mortality.
Famous 14 Line Poems
Some of the most famous sonnets include William Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 18” (“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?”), “Sonnet 116” (“Let me not to the marriage of true minds”), and “Sonnet 130” (“My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun”). Another well-known sonnet is John Keats’ “Bright star, would I were steadfast as thou art.”
The Influence of 14 Line Poems
The sonnet form has had a significant impact on the literary world, with poets continuing to use and experiment with the form to this day. It has also had an influence on other forms of art, including music and film. The structure and constraints of the sonnet can push a poet to be more creative in their use of language and imagery, leading to powerful and memorable poetry.
| Poet | Sonnet Collection |
|---|---|
| Petrarch | Sonnets to Laura |
| William Shakespeare | Sonnets |
| John Keats | Sonnets |
| Elizabeth Barrett Browning | Sonnets from the Portuguese |
| Edna St. Vincent Millay | Sonnets |
The sonnet form continues to be a popular and influential form of poetry, with new poets putting their own spin on the traditional form, keeping it alive and relevant in modern times.
Characteristics of a Sonnet
A sonnet is a 14 line poem that originated in Italy in the 13th century. Over the years, it has become one of the most popular forms of poetry with numerous variations. A sonnet is characterized by the following:
- 14 lines: As mentioned earlier, a sonnet consists of exactly 14 lines. These 14 lines are usually divided into 3 quatrains (groups of 4 lines) and a final couplet (group of 2 lines).
- Rhyme scheme: A sonnet has a specific rhyme scheme that varies depending on the type of sonnet being used. Rhyme schemes for sonnets include ABAB, CDCD, EFEF, GG (Shakespearean sonnet), ABBA ABBA CDE CDE (Petrarchan sonnet), and ABAB BCBC CDCD EE (Spenserian sonnet).
- Iambic pentameter: The majority of sonnets are written in iambic pentameter, a meter in which each line consists of 10 syllables alternating between stressed and unstressed syllables. This creates a rhythmic and musical effect in the poem.
The Impact of Sonnets
Despite the constraints of the form, sonnets have been used to explore a variety of themes, including love, beauty, mortality, and politics. The compactness and elegance of the form, along with its strict requirements, force the poet to choose their words carefully, making each line powerful and evocative.
Sonnets have had a significant impact on literature over the centuries, and have been used by many notable poets, including William Shakespeare, John Donne, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and Pablo Neruda.
Sample Sonnet
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate:
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,
And summer’s lease hath all too short a date:
Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,
And often is his gold complexion dimmed;
And every fair from fair sometime declines,
By chance, or nature’s changing course untrimmed:
But thy eternal summer shall not fade
Nor lose possession of that fair thou owest;
Nor shall Death brag thou wander’st in his shade,
When in eternal lines to time thou growest:
So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,
So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.
| Type of Sonnet | Rhyme Scheme | Famous Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Shakespearean sonnet | ABAB CDCD EFEF GG | Sonnet 18 (“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?”) |
| Petrarchan sonnet | ABBA ABBA CDE CDE | Sonnet 292 (“Erano i capei d’oro a l’aura sparsi”) |
| Spenserian sonnet | ABAB BCBC CDCD EE | Sonnet 75 (“One day I wrote her name upon the strand”) |
Overall, sonnets continue to be a popular form of poetry, and their timeless elegance and flexibility ensure that they will remain a staple of the literary world for many years to come.
Famous Sonnet Writers
Sonnets are known for their 14-line structure and varied rhyme schemes. Some of the most famous poets have showcased their skills in penning sonnets, and below are some of the most renowned sonnet writers:
- William Shakespeare: Considered the master of the sonnet, Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets. His works have become synonymous with English literature, and his sonnets continue to inspire readers and writers even today.
- John Donne: Known for his metaphysical poetry, Donne’s sonnets were unconventional in their approach. He experimented with the rhyme scheme and often intertwined religious and erotic themes in his works.
- Elizabeth Barrett Browning: One of the leading female poets of the Victorian era, Browning wrote the acclaimed Sonnets from the Portuguese. The collection of 44 sonnets chronicles her courtship and marriage to fellow poet Robert Browning.
The Sonnet Form
Sonnets have been around for centuries and have gone through various transformations. The most common form that we know today is the English or Shakespearean sonnet, which consists of three quatrains and a final couplet.
The opening three quatrains explore a particular idea or theme, while the final couplet provides a resolution or conclusion. The rhyme scheme of the English sonnet is abab cdcd efef gg.
Mastering the Sonnet
Writing a sonnet is no easy feat; it requires a careful selection of words and a complex structure. To write a sonnet, one must carefully choose the right words to fit the rhyme scheme while also conveying a strong message or theme.
One approach to mastering the sonnet is to read and analyze works from notable sonnet writers. This will help aspiring poets understand the intricacies of language, form, and structure of a sonnet. Additionally, practicing regularly can help you become a better sonnet writer.
Sonnet Examples
| Sonnet Title | Poet |
|---|---|
| Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? | William Shakespeare |
| Death be not proud | John Donne |
| Sonnet 43: How Do I Love Thee? | Elizabeth Barrett Browning |
The above sonnets are just a few examples of the different ways poets have used the form to express their ideas. Whether you are new to writing poetry or a seasoned poet, exploring the world of sonnets can be a rewarding experience.
Petrarchan vs Shakespearean Sonnet
Sonnets are a common form of poetry that has been used for centuries. They are known for their structured and organized approach, which has made them popular among poets. However, not all sonnets are the same. There are two main types of sonnets that differ in their rhyme schemes and structures – Petrarchan and Shakespearean Sonnets.
- Petrarchan Sonnets: Also known as Italian Sonnets, Petrarchan Sonnets have a 14-line structure divided into two parts- the first part, called an octave consists of eight lines, while the last six form the sestet. The octave has an ABBAABBA rhyme scheme, while the sestet’s rhyme scheme varies, usually as CDCDCD or CDEEDE.
- Shakespearean Sonnets: Shakespearean Sonnets, also called English Sonnets, follow a 14-line structure, divided into three quatrains (four lines) and a final couplet (two lines). The rhyme scheme goes as ABAB CDCD EFEF GG where each stanza has its own rhyme, the couplet usually closing with a witty statement.
While both types of sonnets are used to convey strong emotions, especially love, Shakespearean Sonnets tend to be more conversational and flexible in tone and theme. They use a more universal language, making them easier for readers to relate to. On the other hand, Petrarchan Sonnets tend to have a more rigid form and focus more on beauty and the poets’ personal experiences.
Here is a table summarizing their differences:
| Petrarchan Sonnet | Shakespearean Sonnet | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Lines | 14 | 14 |
| Structure | Octave and Sestet | Three Quatrains and a Couplet |
| Rhyme Scheme | ABBAABBA CDCDCD/CDEEDE | ABAB CDCD EFEF GG |
| Tone and Theme | Personal experiences and beauty | Flexible and universal; Love, life, mortality etc |
In conclusion, both the Petrarchan and Shakespearean sonnets have their unique features and styles. The important factor is for the poet to understand the pros and cons of both styles and marry it with their intent.
Writing Tips for 14 Line Poems
Writing a 14 line poem is challenging yet rewarding. It requires discipline and creativity to convey a message within a specific form. Here are some writing tips that can help you craft a beautiful 14 line poem:
- Choose the right form: There are many different types of 14 line poem forms, including sonnets, ghazals, and rondels. Each form has its own unique structure and rhyme scheme, so choose one that suits your message and style.
- Stick to the form: Once you have chosen a form, it’s important to stick to its rules. This will require you to be creative in finding words that fit the form’s structure and rhyme scheme.
- Focus on one theme: A 14 line poem is too short to cover multiple themes or ideas. Choose one central theme or idea to focus on, and use the poem to explore it in detail.
Creating a 14 line poem can be both challenging and rewarding. Here are some additional tips to help you refine your poem:
Revise: Once you’ve written your first draft, take the time to revise it. Read it out loud to see how it sounds and make sure that it flows smoothly.
Be specific: Rather than using general language to describe ideas or emotions, be specific. Use sensory details to paint a picture in the reader’s mind.
Use metaphor: Metaphor can be a powerful tool in creating images and ideas in the reader’s mind. Use metaphor sparingly but effectively to enhance the poem’s impact.
If you’re looking for inspiration, try reading the works of established poets who have mastered the 14 line form. Read and analyze their work, and see how they have used the form to convey powerful and memorable messages.
| Form | Description | Rhyme Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Sonnet | A 14 line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and structure | ABAB CDCD EFEF GG |
| Ghazal | A 14 line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and refrains | AA BA CA DA… |
| Rondel | A 14 line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and refrain | ABBA ABA A |
Writing a 14 line poem can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Follow these tips and explore different forms to create a powerful and memorable piece of poetry.
Analyzing the Structure of a Sonnet
One of the most distinct features of a sonnet is its structure. A sonnet is a 14-line poem that follows a specific rhyme scheme and rhythm. The structure of a sonnet is further delineated into three quatrains and a final couplet. Let’s take a closer look at the structure of a sonnet.
- 14 lines: A sonnet always contains exactly 14 lines. No more, no less.
- Rhyme scheme: The rhyme scheme of a sonnet depends on the type of sonnet being written, but the most common is ABAB CDCD EFEF GG.
- Quatrains: The sonnet is broken up into three quatrains, which are four-line stanzas. Each quatrain follows the same rhyme scheme.
- Couplet: The final two lines of the sonnet are called the couplet. They typically rhyme with each other and offer a conclusion or resolution to the poem’s theme.
- Iambic pentameter: The sonnet is typically written in iambic pentameter, meaning each line contains ten syllables and follows a pattern of unstressed and stressed syllables.
- Volta: The volta, Italian for “turn,” occurs at the ninth line of the sonnet. This is where the poem’s theme or subject matter often shifts or changes.
The structure of a sonnet is very specific, with each element contributing to the poem’s overall effect. When analyzing a sonnet, it’s important to pay attention to how the structure contributes to the theme or message of the poem.
Here is an example of the structure of a sonnet:
| Quatrain 1 | Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? |
| Quatrain 2 | Thou art more lovely and more temperate: |
| Quatrain 3 | Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, |
| Couplet | And summer’s lease hath all too short a date: |
In the above example, we can see the first quatrain compares the subject to a summer’s day, while the second quatrain shifts the comparison to how the subject is more beautiful and enduring. The third quatrain introduces conflict and tension, with the “rough winds” shaking the buds of May. The final couplet concludes the poem by acknowledging that summer is fleeting but the subject’s beauty is eternal.
FAQs: What is a 14 line poem called?
Q: What is a 14 line poem called?
A: A 14 line poem is called a sonnet.
Q: How many stanzas does a sonnet have?
A: A sonnet has two stanzas of four lines each, followed by a quatrain of four lines and a final couplet of two lines.
Q: Are all sonnets written in iambic pentameter?
A: Traditionally, sonnets are written in iambic pentameter, but some poets choose to break this rule for creative expression.
Q: Who are some famous authors of sonnets?
A: Some famous authors of sonnets include William Shakespeare, Petrarch, and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
Q: Can sonnets be written in any language?
A: Yes, sonnets can be written in any language, as long as they follow the structure of a 14 line poem with a specific rhyme scheme.
Q: What is the rhyme scheme for a Shakespearean sonnet?
A: The rhyme scheme for a Shakespearean sonnet is ABAB CDCD EFEF GG.
Q: Can a sonnet be used to express any emotion or idea?
A: Yes, sonnets can be used to express a wide range of emotions and ideas, from love and passion to politics and social commentary.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading!
We hope that this article has helped you gain a better understanding of what a 14 line poem is called. Whether you’re a student of poetry or simply someone who appreciates the written word, mastering the art of sonnet writing can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thanks for reading, and be sure to visit us again for more informative articles!