How to Write a Nonet Poem
I found this poetry form online while searching for another and I adored the concept so here's what I learned about writing a nonet poem.
A Nonet is a form of poetry that is written in nine lines with each line taking away one syllable. The first line begins with nine syllables, the second line has eight syllables, the third line has seven syllables, and so forth.
1st line = 9 syllables
2nd line = 8 syllables
3rd line = 7 syllables
4th line = 6 syllables
5th line = 5 syllables
6th line = 4 syllables
7th line = 3 syllables
8th line = 2 syllables
9th line = 1 syllable
Apparently this form became popular in the 20th century because although it's structured, it also allows for flexibility due to having no rhyme scheme and no meter. I read on Poetry is Pretentious that there also exist a “reversed nonet.’
A reversed nonet contains nine lines, however, the syllables are added with each line instead of taken away like a regular nonet. So that the first line would contain 1 syllable, the second line would contain 2 syllables, and so on.
They also offer an explanation for a “reflective nonet.” Interestingly, this type of nonet has two stanzas. The first stanza is written using the traditional nonet and the second stanza is written using the reversed nonet.
Here are some examples of a nonet poem:
a pirates playground
the ocean is a pirate's playground
they live their lives upon the sea
battles are fought to the death
the loot is divided
they drink to those lost
set sail again
a pirate's
life for
me
@2003 Mark Williams In sandy dunes on my back I lie Dreaming of warm beaches, blue sky And a girl named Lorelei On memories I fly War seen from on high I vow to try Not to cry As I Die
In sandy dunes on my back I lie Dreaming of warm beaches, blue sky And a girl named Lorelei On memories I fly War seen from on high I vow to try Not to cry As I Die Written by Carolyn Devinshire on November 5th, 2019
Writer’s Digest suggest that a nonet is used for nine performers or instruments so it’s believed that the nonet poem is one of the poetry forms inspired by music which I find fascinating.
I may attempt to write a nonet and share later onto Notes. How many of you have heard of this form and has anyone written one? Sharing is caring.