Types of poems

Question 1

Define sonnet.

Answer 1

A 14-line poem that traditionally follows a specific rhyme scheme and often explores themes of love, beauty, and morality.

Question 2

Define haiku.

Answer 2

• A three-line poem that originated in Japan and typically focuses on nature and the seasons.
• The First and third lines contain five syllables, while the second line contains seven syllables.

Question 3

Define villanelle.

Answer 3

A 19-line poem that follows a specific rhyme scheme and repeating lines, often exploring themes of love, loss, and longing.

Question 4

Define ballad.

Answer 4

• A narrative poem that often tells a story and is meant to be sung or recited.
• Ballads typically have a simple rhyme scheme and rhythm and often explore themes of love, loss, and heroism.

Question 5

Define free verse.

Answer 5

• A type of poetry that does not follow a specific rhyme scheme of the meter.
• Free verse poems often explore a wide range of themes and emotions and can be very experimental in their form and structure.

Question 6

Define ode.

Answer 6

• A poem that celebrates a specific person, place, or thing.
• Odes often have a formal structure and use elevated language to convey a sense of reverence and admiration.

Question 7

Define elegy.

Answer 7

• A poem that mourns the death of a person or thing.
• Elegies often explore themes of loss, grief, and the passing of time.

Question 8

Define epic.

Answer 8

• Along a narrative poem that often tells the story of a hero or group of heroes.
• Epics typically have a formal structure and explore themes of honor, courage, and the struggle between Good and evil.