How to Write a Kyrielle
A traditional poetic form of French origin, a kyrielle is a poem of any length, divided into quatrains containing eight-syllable lines, with each quatrain ending in a refrain. The rhyme scheme is optional and entirely up to the poet.
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Instructions
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1
Consider the subject matter that you wish to write about. Deciding on a refrain before writing the poem will usually help the poem take shape.
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2
Write a quatrain with lines containing eight syllables each and any rhyme scheme you like.
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3
Skip a line between quatrains.
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4
Write three lines containing eight syllables each.
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5
Use the last line of the first quatrain as the last line of this quatrain.
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6
Repeat steps 3, 4 and 5 as desired.
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7
Revise as needed.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider using a refrain that could be read different ways. Begin the poem suggesting one meaning and then end with the other.
Although a lot of people suggest finding a quiet place to write, sometimes the best place to write is at ground zero. Writing a poem about a subway station when you're actually at a subway station, for example, will probably produce a much different poem than one written in a creative bunker.
Don't let peers who claim to be poets discourage you from using poetic forms. When you hear a poet say how much he or she dislikes writing in form, remember that a great artist sees the opportunities in every canvas, regardless of shape or size. A poor artist sees only the limitations.
