10 Different Kinds of Poems and How to Write Them (with Examples)
I’ve compiled a list of 10 different kinds of poems and how to write them with examples to get you started. Grab a pen and your imagination, and let’s explore!
Ever felt like putting your thoughts into words but wanted to do it creatively? Poetry can open up a whole new world of expression. Know that, poetry isn’t just about rhymes; it’s about emotions, ideas, and how words flow together.
And the best part?
You don’t need to be an expert to start writing poetry. If you’re curious about the different styles of poems and how to write them, you’re in the right place.
10 Different Styles of Poems and How to Write Them
Without wasting your time, let me get you straight into the list. Below are the 10 different kinds of poems that you are going to explore in this blog post.
- Haiku
- Sonnet
- Limerick
- Free Verse
- Ballad
- Narrative
- Acrostic
- Concrete
- Ode
- Epic
Now let’s get into the details of each and take a look at how you can write them on your own.
1. What is a Haiku?
A Haiku is a short poem that originated in the 13th century in Japan (Source). It has a strict structure of three lines with a syllable count of 5-7-5, focusing on nature or seasons. Haikus are ideal if you like to pack a lot of meaning into a few words.
Example of a Haiku
Calm waves kiss the shore,
Moonlight dances on water,
Tranquil night whispers.
How to Write One
- Think of a natural scene or moment that inspires you.
- Stick to the 5-7-5 syllable pattern.
- Use powerful imagery and sensory details.
2. What is a Sonnet?
A Sonnet is a 14-line poem that originated in Italy (Source). It’s often written about love or other deep emotions. The most famous type is the Shakespearean sonnet, which follows an ABAB CDCD EFEF GG rhyme scheme.
Example of a Sonnet (Opening lines from Shakespeare)
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate.
How to Write One
- Stick to the 14-line structure.
- Use iambic pentameter (10 syllables per line).
- Write about something you’re passionate about.
3. What is a Limerick?
Limericks are playful, five-line poems with a distinct rhythm. They follow an AABBA rhyme scheme, often featuring humorous or whimsical content.
Example of a Limerick
There once was a cat named Lou,
Who loved playing peek-a-boo.
With a wag of her tail,
She’d knock over the pail,
And vanish before I knew!
How to Write One
- Choose a fun or silly topic.
- Stick to the AABBA rhyme scheme.
- Add a surprise or twist in the last line.
4. What is Free Verse?
Free Verse poems break all the rules. There’s no set structure, rhyme, or rhythm. Free verse offers the ultimate creative freedom, making it perfect for beginners or those who hate boundaries.
Example of Free Verse
The wind howls like a forgotten song,
Carrying whispers of yesterday.
The stars, cold and still,
Remind me of home.
How to Write One
- Write your thoughts without worrying about rhyme.
- Use vivid descriptions and metaphors.
- Focus on expressing how you feel.
5. What is a Ballad?
A Ballad is a narrative poem that tells a story, often set to music. Ballads follow a quatrain structure (four-line stanzas) with an ABCB rhyme scheme.
Example of a Ballad
The ship sailed forth through stormy seas,
Its lantern glowing dim,
The captain clutched the wheel with ease,
While shadows danced with him.
How to Write One
- Choose a story to tell.
- Use quatrains and rhymes deliberately.
- Add emotional or dramatic elements.
6. What is a Narrative Poem?
A Narrative Poem is similar to a ballad but doesn’t necessarily follow a rhyme scheme. It tells a detailed story, with characters, settings, and events.
Example of a Narrative Poem
Arthur rode through the midnight sky,
His sword gleamed, guarding by his side.
Against the storm, his will stood high,
For his kingdom, he’d never hide.
How to Write One
- Write about an event or adventure.
- Use descriptive language and build tension.
- Keep a clear beginning, middle, and end.
7. What is an Acrostic Poem?
Acrostic Poems spell out a word vertically. Each line of the poem starts with the letters of that word.
Example of an Acrostic Poem (Word = HOPE)
Holding fast through darkest days,
Opportunities come in subtle ways.
Press on with strength, don’t despair,
Endless light awaits you there.
How to Write One
- Pick a word to act as the spine of your poem.
- Write each line starting with the corresponding letter.
- Create a theme around the word.
8. What is a Concrete Poem?
Concrete Poems (or shape poems) take the form of the subject you’re writing about. The visual aspect is just as important as the words.
Example
A poem about a tree might be written in the shape of a tree.
How to Write One
- Pick a shape to match your subject.
- Organize the words creatively to form the outline of the shape.
- Keep the balance between visuals and content.
9. What is an Ode?
An Ode is a poem that celebrates something beloved or extraordinary. It’s usually more elaborate and lyrical.
Example of an Ode to Coffee
Oh, dark elixir of the waking world,
Your steam rises like dreams unfurled.
Each sip, a hug, a warmth untold,
Liquid courage, bold and gold.
How to Write One
- Choose something you love or admire.
- Use meaningful language to praise it.
- Add metaphors to show its greatness.
10. What is an Epic Poem?
An Epic Poem is a lengthy narrative about heroic deeds, often featuring gods or legendary events (think The Odyssey or The Iliad).
Example of an Epic Theme
Through thunder and fire, she stood, sword drawn,
The walls crumbled, yet she marched till dawn.
How to Write One
- Focus on a hero and their extraordinary quest.
- Use detailed descriptions and formal language.
- Keep the tone grand and inspiring.
Wrapping Up
Poetry comes in many shapes and styles, like the 10 different kinds I described in this blog post. Each among them offers a unique way to express your thoughts and feelings. Whether you’re drawn to the structure of a haiku or the freedom of free verse, there’s a type of poem that’s perfect for you. So grab your pen, let your creativity flow, and start writing your own poetic masterpieces.
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