Sonnet

Definition

A sonnet is a 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and meter, traditionally associated with themes of love. It typically consists of three quatrains (four-line stanzas) followed by a concluding couplet (two-line stanza).

Related terms

Petrarchan Sonnet: Also known as an Italian sonnet, it follows an ABBAABBA CDECDE rhyme scheme and often explores themes related to unrequited love.

Shakespearean Sonnet: Also called an English sonnet, it follows an ABABCDCDEFEFGG rhyme scheme and commonly addresses themes such as love, beauty, time, and mortality.

Volta: The volta refers to the shift or turn in thought that occurs between different sections of the sonnet, often signaling a change in tone or perspective.