Do you know what a short poem is called? It’s not a riddle, it’s a haiku! That’s right, the Japanese art form that is taught in schools worldwide as a way to express oneself in a concise manner. But haikus aren’t the only type of short poems out there, and they certainly aren’t the easiest to write. So, what is a short poem called that is easier to write but still packs a punch? You’re about to find out.
Short poems have been around for centuries, and they are still widely enjoyed today. From haikus to tankas and beyond, there are countless forms of short poems that have evolved over time. They are particularly useful for those who want to express their thoughts in a succinct, impactful way. But figuring out what form of short poem is right for you can be tricky, and it’s something that many aspiring poets struggle with. That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you understand the different types of short poems and how to write them effectively.
Whether you are writing a poem for fun or as a professional, knowing how to write a short poem is a valuable skill to have. After all, sometimes less really is more, and a carefully crafted short poem can have just as much impact as a longer one. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to learn what a short poem is called and start honing your skills so you can impress your friends and family with your poetic prowess.
Types of Poems
One of the most popular forms of poetry is the short poem. Short poems, also known as brief or simple poems, are defined by their length rather than their subject matter. They can range anywhere from a few words to several lines and can be written in various styles and forms. Let’s explore some types of short poems.
- Haiku: This poetic form originated in Japan and consists of three unrhymed lines. The first and last lines contain five syllables, while the middle line contains seven syllables. Haikus often focus on the beauty of nature and the changing of the seasons.
- Elegy: This type of poem is written in honor of someone who has passed away. Elegies are often melancholic and express feelings of grief and loss. However, they can also celebrate the life of the deceased and offer comfort to those left behind.
- Limerick: Limericks are five-line poems with a distinctive rhyme scheme. They are often humorous and playful, and the first, second, and fifth lines usually contain eight or nine syllables, while the third and fourth lines contain five or six.
Short poems can also take on many different forms, including sonnets, acrostics, and free verse. While their brevity may seem limiting, it actually allows poets to capture powerful emotions and imagery in just a few words.
Take, for example, this short poem by Emily Dickinson:
| Hope is the thing with feathers – | That perches in the soul – |
| And sings the tune without the words – | And never stops – at all – |
This poem uses just four lines to convey the idea that hope is like a bird that never gives up and continues to sing even when there are no words to express what we feel.
Short poems may be small, but they are powerful in their ability to evoke emotions and create vivid images in the reader’s mind.
Short Poems in Literature
Short poems are a form of literature that has been around for centuries. They are a powerful way to express emotions, thoughts, and ideas in a concise and impactful manner. These poems often rely on the use of imagery, metaphor, and other literary devices to convey their message. In this article, we will explore the different types of short poems and their significance in literature.
The Types of Short Poems
- Haiku: A traditional Japanese poetic form, haiku consists of three lines. The first and last lines contain five syllables, while the middle line has seven syllables.
- Tanka: Another Japanese form, tanka consists of five lines. The first and second lines have five syllables each, the third and fourth lines have seven syllables each, and the fifth line has five syllables.
- Sonnet: An English poetic form, sonnets have 14 lines and typically follow a rhyme scheme. The most famous type of sonnet is the Shakespearean sonnet, which has a rhyme scheme of ABAB CDCD EFEF GG.
- Free Verse: As the name suggests, free verse poems don’t have any set rhyme or meter. This allows the poet to experiment with different structures and styles.
The Significance of Short Poems in Literature
Short poems are significant in literature because they allow the poet to evoke emotion and convey meaning in a concise and powerful manner. They require the poet to carefully choose each word and phrase, ensuring that every line carries weight and contributes to the overall message of the poem.
One of the most famous short poems in literature is “The Red Wheelbarrow” by William Carlos Williams:
| so much depends | upon |
| a red wheel | barrow |
| glazed with rain | water |
| beside the white | chickens. |
This short poem, with its simple language and vivid imagery, has become a classic of modernist poetry. Its significance lies in its ability to convey a sense of the beauty and significance of everyday objects.
In conclusion, short poems are a powerful and significant form of literature. Their concise structure allows them to convey emotion and meaning in a way that is both impactful and memorable. Whether through haiku, tanka, sonnets, or free verse, short poems have the ability to capture the essence of a moment or an idea and translate it into something beautiful and lasting.
Characteristics of Short Poems
Short poems are a genre of poetry that have a limited number of words or lines. They can pack a powerful punch, often conveying complex ideas and emotions in just a few words. The following are some of the key characteristics that define a short poem.
- Brevity: As the name suggests, short poems are short, typically consisting of fewer than 15 lines. The brevity of these poems forces the poet to convey a message or emotion in a concise and impactful way.
- Focus: Short poems tend to have a single focus or theme. They hone in on a specific idea or emotion, often using vivid imagery and precise language to convey their meaning.
- Simplicity: Short poems are often simple in structure and language. They use everyday words and accessible language that is easy to understand, making them relatable to readers of all backgrounds.
Examples of Short Poems:
Here are a few examples of famous short poems, each showcasing the characteristics listed above:
“Fog” by Carl Sandburg
The fog comes
on little cat feet.
It sits looking
over harbor and city
on silent haunches
and then moves on.
“In a Station of the Metro” by Ezra Pound
The apparition of these faces in the crowd;
Petals on a wet, black bough.
Both of these poems are under ten lines, yet they convey vivid imagery and powerful emotions. Their brevity and simplicity allow readers to easily connect with the themes they explore.
Advantages of Short Poems:
Short poems have a number of advantages over longer forms of poetry. The following are a few reasons why they are a valuable part of the literary landscape:
- Accessibility: The simplicity and brevity of short poems make them accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds. Unlike longer forms of poetry that might require extensive analysis or specialized knowledge to understand, short poems can be appreciated by anyone.
- Impact: Short poems can pack a powerful punch, often delivering a strong emotional message in just a few lines. This makes them a powerful tool for poets looking to make an impact on readers.
- Creativity: The constraints of a short poem can paradoxically lead to greater creativity. By limiting the number of words or lines they can use, poets are forced to find new and inventive ways to convey their message.
Short poems are an essential component of the literary landscape, offering readers powerful insights into the human experience in just a few words. Despite their brevity, they are capable of conveying complex emotions and ideas, and are a valuable and enriching form of poetry.
Famous Short Poets
Short poetry is a form of poetry that is celebrated for its ability to convey powerful emotions and complex ideas succinctly. A short poem can be as powerful as a longer one, and many poets have made a name for themselves by mastering this exact art of short form poetry.
- Emily Dickinson: Emily Dickinson is often regarded as the queen of short poetry. Dickinson wrote nearly 1800 poems, many of which were short and powerful pieces. Her poems are characterized by their brevity, intricate use of language, and their exploration of themes such as death, love, and nature.
- Robert Frost: Robert Frost is known for his deceptively simple poems that often explore complex themes such as isolation, darkness, and human nature. Frost’s poems are often short but memorable, characterized by their vivid imagery and their ability to evoke emotional responses in readers.
- E.E. Cummings: E.E. Cummings was a poet who often experimented with form, punctuation, and syntax. His poems are often short and playful, characterized by unconventional punctuation, creative use of language, and a whimsical tone.
Short poetry has a unique power that stems from its brevity and precision. By using a few carefully chosen words, poets can condense complex emotions and ideas into a few lines, creating poems that are both powerful and memorable. Short poetry is a form that continues to evolve, with contemporary poets such as Warsan Shire and Billy Collins pushing the boundaries of what it means to write short poems.
| Poet | Notable Works |
|---|---|
| Emily Dickinson | “Because I Could Not Stop for Death,” “Hope is the Thing with Feathers,” “I Heard a Fly Buzz When I Died” |
| Robert Frost | “The Road Not Taken,” “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening,” “Nothing Gold Can Stay” |
| E.E. Cummings | “anyone lived in a pretty how town,” “i carry your heart with me,” “somewhere i have never travelled, gladly beyond” |
Short poetry is a form that has been used by many writers throughout history. Whether it’s Emily Dickinson’s exploration of death and nature, Robert Frost’s musings on the human condition, or E.E. Cummings’s playful use of language, short poetry continues to captivate and inspire readers. So next time you’re looking for a quick burst of emotion or inspiration, turn to the world of short poetry.
Examples of Short Poems
When it comes to short poems, sometimes less is more. Here are some examples of short poems that pack a powerful punch in just a few lines.
- “Haiku” by Matsuo Basho: This classic Japanese form consists of three lines with a syllable count of 5-7-5. Here’s an example:
- Falling to the ground,
A single leaf trembles still,
Finally at rest.
- Falling to the ground,
- “This Is Just To Say” by William Carlos Williams: This deceptively simple poem has only 28 words but manages to convey an entire story and a range of emotions. Here it is in its entirety:
- I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox
and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast
Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold
- I have eaten
- “The Red Wheelbarrow” by William Carlos Williams: Another classic from Williams, this short poem is only 16 words but has become one of his most famous works.
- so much depends
upon
a red wheel
barrow
glazed with rain
water
beside the white
chickens.
- so much depends
Short poems can vary in form and length, but they all share the ability to capture a moment or emotions in a concise and impactful way. The above examples are just a few of the many short poems that have left a lasting impression on readers.
Interpretations of Short Poems
Short poems can be just as potent and meaningful as longer ones, and sometimes even more so. The brevity of the poem forces the poet to carefully consider each word and phrase, often leading to multiple interpretations and layers of meaning. Here are some common interpretations of short poems:
- Mood or Tone: Short poems can capture a specific mood or tone, such as sadness, hopefulness, or nostalgia. The limited number of words makes each one count, making the overall tone of the poem more impactful.
- Imagery: Short poems often rely heavily on vivid imagery, painting a picture in the reader’s mind with just a few choice words. This can create a powerful emotional response in the reader.
- Metaphor or Symbolism: Short poems can also be packed full of metaphors or symbolism, allowing the reader to extract deeper meanings from the words.
Let’s take a look at an example of a short poem and some possible interpretations:
Fog by Carl Sandburg
The fog comes
On little cat feet.
It sits looking
Over harbor and city
On silent haunches
And then moves on.
Interpretations:
- The poem evokes a sense of stillness and quietness, as the fog moves silently over the city.
- The metaphor of the fog as “little cat feet” creates a vivid image in the reader’s mind and adds a playful tone to the poem.
- The use of personification in the line “It sits looking” further emphasizes the calm and watchful nature of the fog.
Overall, short poems can be a powerful tool for expressing complex emotions and ideas in a concise and impactful way.
| Pros of Short Poems | Cons of Short Poems |
|---|---|
| Can be quick to read, ideal for those with limited time | May not have the same depth and complexity as longer poems |
| Can provide a quick emotional impact | May require more effort on the part of the reader to interpret and understand |
| Less intimidating for novice poetry readers | May not be suitable for those who prefer longer, more in-depth literary works |
Overall, short poems can be a valuable addition to any poetry lover’s collection. Whether you enjoy the brevity, the imagery, or the multiple interpretations possible, there is sure to be a short poem out there that speaks to you.
Writing Short Poems Techniques
A short poem is a powerful piece of literature that captures the essence of a moment or an emotion in a few lines. It may seem easy to write a short poem, but crafting one that resonates with readers can be challenging. Here are some writing techniques to create effective short poems:
- Choose a theme: A short poem must have a well-defined subject that can be expressed in a few words. Select a theme that you feel passionate about and can convey in a concise manner.
- Use sensory details: Sensory details bring a poem to life and make it relatable. Use vivid imagery and descriptive language to appeal to the reader’s senses.
- Create a strong opening line: The first line of a poem sets the tone for the rest of the piece. Make it memorable and impactful to hook your readers.
One popular form of short poem is the Haiku. It is a Japanese verse consisting of three lines. The first and third lines have five syllables, while the second line has seven syllables. Here’s an example:
Autumn moonlight-
a worm digs silently
into the chestnut.
The Haiku creates a vivid image of a peaceful autumn night, but the worm’s activity adds an element of surprise to the poem.
| Poetry Form | Description |
|---|---|
| Epigram | A witty poem with a surprise twist at the end. |
| Limerick | A humorous poem with five lines. Lines one, two, and five have eight or nine syllables and rhyme with each other. Lines three and four have five or six syllables and rhyme with each other. |
| Tanka | A Japanese form of poetry with five lines. The first and third lines have five syllables, while the second, fourth, and fifth lines have seven syllables. |
Writing a short poem requires careful consideration of every word and how it contributes to the overall piece. By choosing a compelling theme, using sensory details, and crafting a strong opening line, you can create a powerful poem that resonates with readers.
What is a Short Poem Called?
Q: What is a short poem called?
A: A short poem is called a “short poem” or a “short verse.” It can also be referred to as a “haiku” or a “sonnet.”
Q: How long is a short poem?
A: A short poem is typically no more than 10-15 lines long. However, there is no set rule for the length of a short poem.
Q: What is the purpose of a short poem?
A: The purpose of a short poem is to evoke emotion or create a vivid picture in the reader’s mind in a concise and impactful way.
Q: What are some examples of famous short poems?
A: Some famous short poems include “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost, “Haiku” by Matsuo Basho, and “Sonnet 18” by William Shakespeare.
Q: Can a short poem have any structure?
A: Yes, a short poem can have any structure, including rhyme scheme, repetition, or free verse.
Q: What is the difference between a short poem and a longer poem?
A: The main difference between a short poem and a longer poem is their length and the level of detail they provide. Short poems are more concise and impactful, while longer poems provide more depth and detail.
Q: Can anyone write a short poem?
A: Yes, anyone can write a short poem. All you need is a message or emotion you want to convey, and the ability to express it in a concise and impactful way.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading about what a short poem is called. Now that you know that a short poem is typically no more than 10-15 lines long and can be referred to as a “short poem,” “short verse,” “haiku,” or “sonnet,” why not try writing one yourself? Remember, a short poem can have any structure and its purpose is to evoke emotion or create a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. So, get creative and express yourself in a concise and impactful way. Be sure to visit again later for more insights and information!