1. Poetry

2. Poetry Genres There are approximately 9 different genres of poetry
Each form has its own definitive qualities with many different variations
Some have sub-categories within genres

3. Sonnet From the Italian Sonnetto meaning “Little Song”
Traditionally has fourteen lines divided into two stanzas of eight and six lines with ten syllables in each
Strict rules of metre, rhythm, and length
However, many poets have begun to change structure
Made famous by Shakespeare

4. Concrete The importance of the poem is in its visual shape
Integration of the written word and the visual representation
Shape and font help to contribute to poem’s meaning

5. Lyric
Expresses person’s emotion or feeling, typically spoken in first person
From ancient Greek “Lyric” which was accompanied by musical instrument called a lyre
Sub-categories: Elegy, Ode, Dramatic Monologue
Made famous by Aristotle

6. Narrative
Gives a verbal representation, in verse, of a series of connected events
A narrator propels a character through a plot
Feelings of narrator are obvious and actual details of story are only suggested
Love stories, deeds of a hero or heroine
Sub-categories: Epic, ballad

7. Descriptive
Indulges in excessive use of descriptive words to paint a picture in your mind
Goes into great detail of surroundings appeal directly to the senses
Mostly used in 16th-18th century in Europe

8. Didactic Poetry that is meant to instruct either morals or knowledge
Religion, philosophy, arts, science, or skills
It has a clear message to convey to readers

9. Light Verse
Attempts to be humorous about both silly and serious topics
Word play, puns, adventurous rhyme schemes, heavy alliteration
Usually short

10. Satirical
Used as a way to critique vices and short comings of individuals, governments, corporations, or society
Usually sounds humorous but deals with serious matter
Uses wit to get point across and draw attention to problems

11. Reflective Explicit or implicit generalizations about life
Reflection on the state of mind of the poet
Usually longer than a lyric