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What is a Ciquain poem?

Ciquain poem or Cinquain is a relatively modern form of poetry that follows a specific structure and consists of five lines. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century and has since gained popularity as a form of creative expression.

Here are the features and structure of a Cinquain poem:

1. Line 1: Consists of one word, usually a noun, which serves as the subject or topic of the poem.

2. Line 2: Contains two adjectives or participles that describe attributes or qualities of the subject in line 1.

3. Line 3: Consists of three verbs or verb phrases that express actions or characteristics associated with the subject.

4. Line 4: Contains four words that offer a further insight or observation about the subject. This line often captures the essence or impact of the subject.

5. Line 5: Concludes the poem with one word, which can be a synonym or a related concept to the subject in line 1. This word usually serves as a powerful closing statement or leaves a lasting impression.

The Cinquain poem's structure resembles an inverted pyramid or diamond shape, with the lines increasing and then decreasing in word count. It allows poets to capture and present a concise, evocative, and thought-provoking representation of a topic or idea.

Poetry

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