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What is a formula poem?

A formula poem or patterned poetry refers to a type of poem that follows a specific pattern or structure in terms of its form, rhyme scheme, or verse structure. Essentially, it is a verse written according to a predetermined formula or format. Here are a few common types of formula poems:

1. Acrostic Poem: In an acrostic poem, the first letter of each line spells out a word or message, often vertically forming a hidden word or phrase.

2. Haiku: Haiku is a Japanese short form of poetry consisting of three unrhymed lines, typically following a 5-7-5 syllable pattern.

3. Limerick: Limericks are humorous poems consisting of five lines, with a specific rhyme scheme of AABBA.

4. Sonnet: A sonnet is a 14-line poem written in iambic pentameter (a specific meter pattern), following specific rhyme schemes such as the Petrarchan or Shakespearean sonnet forms.

5. Villanelle: A villanelle is a 19-line poem with a fixed structure and intricate rhyme scheme. It repeats two refrains alternately throughout the poem.

6. Pantoum: A pantoum is a poem where each line becomes the first line of the next stanza and the last line of the previous stanza, creating a cyclical effect.

These are just a few examples of formula poems. Each type of formula poem has its own distinct structure, rules, and rhyme patterns, making them unique forms of poetic expression.

Poetry

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