A villanelle​ is a highly structured form of poetry that originated in France during the Renaissance. It is known for its strict pattern of repetition and rhyme, which gives the poem a musical quality. Understanding the rules of a villanelle can enhance one’s appreciation of this poetic form and provide insight into the skill required to compose such a poem.

Structure of a Villanelle

A traditional villanelle consists of 19 lines, divided into six stanzas: five tercets (three-line stanzas) followed by a concluding quatrain (four-line stanza). The specific structure is as follows:

First stanza (tercet):

• Line 1 (A1): Refrain 1

• Line 2 (b): Rhyme B

• Line 3 (A2): Refrain 2

Second stanza (tercet):

• Line 4 (a): Rhyme A

• Line 5 (b): Rhyme B

• Line 6 (A1): Refrain 1

Third stanza (tercet):

• Line 7 (a): Rhyme A

• Line 8 (b): Rhyme B

• Line 9 (A2): Refrain 2

Fourth stanza (tercet):

• Line 10 (a): Rhyme A

• Line 11 (b): Rhyme B

• Line 12 (A1): Refrain 1

Fifth stanza (tercet):

• Line 13 (a): Rhyme A

• Line 14 (b): Rhyme B

• Line 15 (A2): Refrain 2

Sixth stanza (quatrain):

• Line 16 (a): Rhyme A

• Line 17 (b): Rhyme B

• Line 18 (A1): Refrain 1

• Line 19 (A2): Refrain 2

In this structure, the first and third lines of the initial tercet (A1 and A2) serve as refrains that alternate at the end of each subsequent tercet and are both repeated in the final quatrain. This pattern creates a circular rhythm and reinforces the thematic elements of the poem.

Rhyme Scheme

The villanelle employs only two rhyme sounds throughout the entire poem, following an ABA rhyme scheme for the tercets and an ABAA rhyme scheme for the concluding quatrain. This means:

• A1: Rhyme sound A (Refrain 1)

• b: Rhyme sound B

• A2: Rhyme sound A (Refrain 2)

This limited rhyme scheme contributes to the musicality and challenges the poet to find suitable words that fit both the rhyme and the poem’s theme.

Meter

While the villanelle does not have a strict meter, many traditional villanelles are written in iambic pentameter, which consists of five pairs of syllables per line, with the second syllable in each pair being stressed. However, poets may choose other meters to suit the tone and subject matter of their poem.

Refrains

The repetition of the first and third lines (A1 and A2) throughout the poem serves as a refrain, creating a sense of rhythm and emphasis. These refrains can convey a cyclical theme or highlight a particular emotion or idea. The skillful use of refrains allows the poet to reinforce the poem’s message and create a resonant impact on the reader.

Conclusion

The villanelle is a beautiful and intricate poetic form that combines repetition, rhythm, and emotion. Its strict rules may seem challenging, but they also provide a framework for creating powerful and memorable poetry. By understanding the rules of a villanelle, you can appreciate the skill and creativity that goes into writing one—or even try your hand at crafting your own. Whether you’re reading or writing a villanelle, this poetic form offers a rich and unforgettable experience.