The villanelle is one of the most structured and distinctive forms of poetry. With its rigid rhyme scheme and repeating refrains, the villanelle offers poets a unique challenge in terms of both form and thematic expression. Despite its complexity, it is a rewarding poetic form that can evoke powerful emotions and create memorable, resonant poetry. In this article, we will explore the rules for writing a villanelle, discuss its history and significance, and provide tips for poets seeking to master this form.
The Structure of a Villanelle
The villanelle consists of 19 lines, organized in a very specific way. Understanding this structure is the first step in writing a villanelle. Let’s break it down:
Line Count: A villanelle has 19 lines in total.
It is made up of five tercets (three-line stanzas) followed by a concluding quatrain (four-line stanza).
Rhyme Scheme: The rhyme scheme is highly structured.
The first and third lines of the opening tercet rhyme with each other and serve as the refrains throughout the poem.
The rhyme scheme for the entire poem is: A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A-A.
Here, “A” refers to the repeated refrains, and “B” refers to the rhyming lines within the stanzas.
Refrains: The first and third lines of the opening tercet will repeat alternately at the end of each subsequent tercet, and the first line will appear as the final line of the concluding quatrain.
Specifically, the first line of the poem is repeated as the last line of the second, fourth, sixth, and so on tercets, and the third line of the poem is repeated at the end of the first, third, fifth, and so on tercets.
In this way, the refrains help create a sense of echo and thematic emphasis, driving home the central idea or emotion.
Meter: Traditionally, villanelles are written in iambic pentameter, a rhythmic pattern consisting of ten syllables per line, with alternating unstressed and stressed syllables.
However, contemporary poets may choose to write in different meters, though iambic pentameter remains the most common.
A Historical Overview of the Villanelle
The villanelle has a rich history, originating in the Renaissance period. It is believed to have been influenced by the traditional Italian form of the “villanella,” which was a rustic song or ballad. However, the form that we recognize today as the villanelle was solidified by French poets in the 16th century, especially by the poet Jean Passerat.
One of the most famous examples of the villanelle form is Dylan Thomas‘s poem “Do not go gentle into that good night,” written in 1947. The villanelle’s repetitive structure lends itself perfectly to the poem’s central themes of defiance against death and the persistence of life. This poem has come to symbolize the power of the villanelle, demonstrating how repetition can intensify emotional expression and build a sense of urgency and finality.
Why Write a Villanelle?
A villanelle’s structured nature forces poets to focus on precision, word choice, and thematic consistency. The rigid repetition of refrains creates a sense of ritualistic obsession or inevitability, which can lend an emotional resonance to a poem. The repetition of certain lines can also amplify particular ideas, emotions, or arguments, making it an excellent tool for poems that deal with concepts like loss, longing, or hope.
Moreover, the intricate rhyme scheme and rhythmic constraints of the villanelle challenge poets to be creative within a set structure, offering a satisfying tension between control and freedom. While the form may seem restrictive, it can help poets discover new ways of expressing their thoughts and emotions, often leading to surprising insights and creative breakthroughs.
Key Rules for Writing a Villanelle
To write a successful villanelle, a poet must adhere to several rules that define the form’s structure, rhyme scheme, and overall effectiveness. Here is a breakdown of the essential rules:
Select Two Lines for Refrains
The first and third lines of the opening tercet must become the refrains that will appear at the end of each subsequent tercet. These lines should be memorable, as their repetition will reinforce the poem’s theme.
Follow the Rhyme Scheme
The rhyme scheme of the villanelle is highly specific: A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A, A-B-A-A.
This means that every other line in the poem must rhyme with the first and third lines of the opening tercet.
The refrains (the repeated lines) must also fit into the rhyme scheme.
Write 19 Lines
The poem must contain exactly 19 lines: five tercets (three-line stanzas) and one quatrain (four-line stanza) at the end.
Maintain the Meter
Villanelles are traditionally written in iambic pentameter, with ten syllables per line, following an alternating unstressed-stressed syllable pattern.
While modern poets may take creative liberties, the rhythmic structure of iambic pentameter lends a musical quality to the poem, enhancing its emotional impact.
Use Repetition to Your Advantage
The repetition of the refrains throughout the poem is crucial for creating a sense of thematic unity.
The repeated lines must not only rhyme but should also carry emotional weight and significance.
As the poem progresses, the refrains should take on new meanings or layers, reflecting the poem’s evolving themes.
Develop a Strong Theme
The repetitive nature of the villanelle requires the poet to develop a strong central theme or message that can withstand multiple reiterations.
Common themes for villanelles include loss, death, love, or the passage of time—ideas that lend themselves well to repetition.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Weak Refrains: The refrains are the backbone of the villanelle, so ensure they are strong and impactful. A weak refrain can undermine the power of the poem.
Forced Rhymes: Because of the strict rhyme scheme, it can be tempting to force rhymes. Avoid this by ensuring that the rhymes feel natural and organic.
Inconsistent Meter: Pay close attention to the meter of each line. The rhythmic flow is a key feature of the villanelle, so inconsistencies can disrupt the poem’s impact.
Conclusion
The villanelle is a challenging yet rewarding form of poetry. Its strict structure and repetitive refrains force poets to be creative within constraints, which can lead to powerful, emotionally resonant poetry. By understanding the rules of the villanelle and practicing with different themes and ideas, poets can master this unique and expressive form.
Whether you are a seasoned poet or just starting out, the villanelle offers a fantastic opportunity to explore rhythm, rhyme, and repetition in a way that can elevate your work and captivate your readers.