How to Write a Sonnet Correctly
A sonnet may be one of the oldest forms of poetry, but it can still be an exciting challenge for both experienced and new poets. There are two main forms of sonnet: Italian and English. Both are 14 lines long but have a few distinguishing characteristics. Following the proper sonnet form is not particularly difficult, but writing an original, evocative sonnet will take a bit of practice even for a seasoned poet.
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Instructions
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Master the meter. Sonnets are written in iambic pentameter. Pentameter means that there are five meter units per line. Iambic means that each meter unit is an "iamb," in other words, two syllables with the emphasis on the second syllable. For instance, the word "report" is an iamb, while the word "butter" is not.
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Choose your rhyme scheme. A rhyme scheme is the rhyming pattern for the words ending each line of the sonnet. An Italian sonnet uses an "ABBA/ABBA/CDE/CDE" pattern. This means the first, fourth, fifth, and eighth lines rhyme (the "A" in the pattern), while the second, third, sixth and seventh lines all share a different rhyme. A Shakespearean English sonnet uses the "ABAB/CDCD/EFEF/GG" pattern. The final "GG" lines are called a couplet, and typically provide a more potent ending than the Italian form. Over the years, different poets have departed slightly from these patterns, so feel free to innovate.
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Carefully plan your structure. In addition to simply dictating the sounds of the final words of these lines, the rhyme scheme imposes a certain logical structure. The Italian sonnet has four basic sections, while the English has three, followed by the ending couplet. Use these sections to the sonnet's benefit. Just as a narrative has a beginning, middle, and end, so can a sonnet.
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Begin writing. Once you know what you are trying to say in your sonnet, finding the right words for the meter and rhyme scheme should be easier.
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Edit your sonnet. As with any other piece of writing, a first draft is rarely the best draft. Go back and correct word choice, move lines around, or fix a problem with meter. Read your sonnet aloud each time you complete a revision. Difficult-to-edit portions will stand out better when spoken.
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Tips & Warnings
The best preparation for writing a sonnet is to read plenty of sonnets. Many are available online for free or in poetry compilations at a local library.
Do not be afraid to experiment. There is no poetry police. If you stray too far, your poem may not really be considered a sonnet, but it may just be a great poem.
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