A villanelle is a 19-line poem with a specific structure that consists of five tercets followed by a quatrain. The rhyme scheme is ABA for the tercets and ABAA for the final quatrain. The first and third lines of the opening tercet repeat alternately at the end of the subsequent stanzas and come together in the final quatrain. This form creates a musical quality and often evokes deep emotions. Let’s explore three examples of how to write a villanelle.
This villanelle captures the awe of a sunset, a common theme in poetry that highlights the beauty of nature. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to express admiration for the natural world.
The sun dips low, the sky ablaze,
With hues of orange, pink, and gold.
A fleeting moment, it’s hard to praise.
The clouds are brushed in twilight’s gaze,
As whispers of the night unfold.
The sun dips low, the sky ablaze.
Each day a canvas, nature’s maze,
With brushstrokes bold, and stories told.
A fleeting moment, it’s hard to praise.
Time dances softly in this phase,
While shadows stretch, the light grows cold.
The sun dips low, the sky ablaze.
In stillness, all my worries graze,
As peace within my heart takes hold.
A fleeting moment, it’s hard to praise.
So let me linger in this daze,
And treasure each hue as it unfolds.
The sun dips low, the sky ablaze,
A fleeting moment, it’s hard to praise.
This example emphasizes imagery and emotion, making it relatable for those who appreciate the beauty of sunsets. Feel free to change the subject matter to any natural phenomenon.
This villanelle reflects on the passage of time and the journey of life, which is a universal theme that resonates with many. It can be used for personal reflections or shared experiences.
Through winding paths, we all must roam,
Each step a choice, each choice a chance.
In search of love, we find our home.
With every twist, we’re far from known,
Yet in the dance, we learn to prance.
Through winding paths, we all must roam.
The lessons learned, the seeds we’ve sown,
In laughter’s glow, in sorrow’s glance.
In search of love, we find our home.
As seasons change, we’re not alone,
We find our strength in life’s expanse.
Through winding paths, we all must roam.
With open hearts, we’ve brightly shone,
Embracing fate, we take a chance.
In search of love, we find our home.
So here’s to journeys, yet unknown,
With every step, we take a stance.
Through winding paths, we all must roam,
In search of love, we find our home.
This villanelle can resonate with readers from different walks of life. You can personalize it by adding specific experiences or feelings related to life’s journey.
This villanelle explores the theme of nostalgia and the impact of memories on our lives. It’s ideal for those looking to delve into their past experiences and emotions.
In quiet moments, memories play,
A whisper soft, a distant call.
They linger long, then fade away.
Each fleeting thought, a bright array,
Of laughter shared, of rise and fall.
In quiet moments, memories play.
The bittersweet of yesterday,
A tapestry that weaves us all.
They linger long, then fade away.
In shadows cast, they often sway,
Reminding us of times enthralled.
In quiet moments, memories play.
Yet in their warmth, we find our way,
A guiding light, though we feel small.
They linger long, then fade away.
So hold them close, don’t go astray,
For in their heart, we stand tall.
In quiet moments, memories play,
They linger long, then fade away.
This example allows for emotional depth. Feel free to adjust the memories to fit personal experiences or broader themes relevant to your audience.
These examples of how to write a villanelle show that this poetic form can be both structured and deeply expressive. Whether you’re celebrating nature, reflecting on life, or exploring memories, the villanelle offers a unique way to convey your thoughts and feelings. Happy writing!