in need of assistance
Writing a Sonnet
DIRECTIONS:
Love is one of the most popular themes in traditional sonnets; it has been explored in poetry for centuries, but even today, poets find new and unique ways to write about it. Your job is to write your own sonnet on the
topic of love—so first, figure out what you want to say about it. Then compose your sonnet below using the Shakespearean sonnet rhyme scheme and meter. The end rhyme scheme has been provided to help you. Simply click on each line to begin typing your poem.
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Stanza 1: Introduces the theme/dramatic situation |
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A |
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B |
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A |
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B |
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Stanza 2: Provides another example of the theme |
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C |
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D |
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C |
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D |
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Stanza 3: Provides a third example of the theme |
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E |
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F |
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E |
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F |
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Couplet (Resolution/implications) |
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G |
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G |
Notes:
· End rhymes may be true rhymes or slant rhymes
· Must follow the rhyme scheme and be written in iambic pentameter to receive a passing grade
· It may be helpful to write a rough draft on a separate sheet of paper first to figure out
what you want to say—then come back and figure out
how to say it using the sonnet pattern
· Understanding iambic pentameter:
· Each line of the poem will have
10 syllables (not words…
syllables!)
· The first syllable in each “pair” (foot) will be unstressed; the second will be stressed
· When done correctly, you’ll notice a bouncy “horse galloping” rhythm to the lines
Examples:
“Shall
I
com
pare
thee
to
a
sum
mer’s
day
?”
“So
long
lives
this
, and
this
gives
life
to
thee
.”
