How To Write A Sestina Poem: A Comprehensive Guide
The sestina. Just the name conjures images of complex structures, intricate wordplay, and a certain air of literary mystique. If you’ve ever been curious about this challenging yet rewarding poetic form, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through every step of how to write a sestina poem, from understanding its core principles to crafting your own masterpiece. Forget the intimidation; with a little patience and practice, you can unlock the beauty of the sestina.
Decoding the Sestina: Understanding the Fundamentals
Before you even think about putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), it’s crucial to grasp the fundamental rules of a sestina. This isn’t a free-form poem; it adheres to a very specific and rigid structure. The sestina is composed of six stanzas, each containing six lines, followed by a three-line envoi (also sometimes called the “tornada”).
The true magic, however, lies in the repetition of the end words. You select six words, and these words must appear at the end of each line in each stanza, but in a specific rotating order. The envoi also uses these six words, but they appear in a different and specific order. It’s a challenging puzzle, but when executed well, the effect is mesmerizing.
Choosing Your Six Key Words: The Foundation of Your Poem
The success of your sestina hinges on your word choices. These six words are the building blocks of your poem, and they must carry significant weight and thematic relevance. They should be words that resonate with your chosen subject matter and lend themselves to diverse meanings and associations.
Consider your topic. What are the central themes or ideas you want to explore? Once you have a clear understanding of your subject, brainstorm words that encapsulate those themes. Aim for words that are both evocative and versatile. They should be able to function in different contexts and grammatical forms.
The Stanza Structure: Mastering the Rotating Order
Now for the nitty-gritty: the stanza structure. This is where the rotating order of your end words comes into play. Here’s how it works:
- Stanza 1: Word 1, Word 2, Word 3, Word 4, Word 5, Word 6
- Stanza 2: Word 6, Word 1, Word 5, Word 2, Word 4, Word 3
- Stanza 3: Word 3, Word 6, Word 2, Word 1, Word 5, Word 4
- Stanza 4: Word 4, Word 3, Word 1, Word 6, Word 2, Word 5
- Stanza 5: Word 5, Word 4, Word 6, Word 3, Word 1, Word 2
- Stanza 6: Word 2, Word 5, Word 4, Word 3, Word 6, Word 1
Notice the pattern? Each stanza shifts the order, with the final word of one stanza becoming the first word of the next. The system might seem daunting initially, but with practice, it becomes manageable.
Crafting Compelling Lines: Writing Within the Constraints
The structure of the sestina demands precision. You can’t simply throw words together; each line must be carefully crafted to fit the structure and convey meaning. Focus on creating strong, evocative lines that contribute to the overall theme of your poem.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sentence structures and rhythms. Play with enjambment (running a sentence over multiple lines) to create a sense of flow and surprise. Pay attention to the sounds of your words, using alliteration, assonance, and consonance to enhance the musicality of your poem.
The Envoi: Bringing the Poem to a Powerful Conclusion
The envoi, the final three-line stanza, is the culmination of your efforts. This is where you bring your six words together, and it’s your final opportunity to tie everything together. The envoi’s structure is crucial; you must incorporate all six words within its three lines.
Here’s how the envoi works:
- Line 1: Word 2, Word 4
- Line 2: Word 6, Word 1
- Line 3: Word 3, Word 5
The envoi should also serve as a summary or reflection of the poem’s central theme. It should offer a sense of closure and leave a lasting impression on the reader.
Examples of Sestinas: Learning from the Masters
Reading examples of sestinas is an excellent way to understand the form in action. Study the works of masters like Elizabeth Bishop (her poem “Sestina” is particularly famous), Ezra Pound, and W.H. Auden. Analyze how they use their chosen words, how they structure their stanzas, and how they craft their envoi. Pay attention to their use of imagery, symbolism, and tone. By studying the work of established poets, you can gain valuable insights into the art of writing sestinas.
Tips and Tricks for Sestina Success
- Start small: Don’t try to write a masterpiece on your first attempt. Begin with a simple subject and a manageable set of words.
- Plan ahead: Before you write, sketch out the structure of your stanzas. This will help you keep track of your end words.
- Embrace revision: Writing a sestina is a process. Expect to revise your poem multiple times. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make changes.
- Read aloud: Reading your poem aloud is essential. It will help you identify any awkward phrasing or rhythmic problems.
- Get feedback: Ask a trusted friend or writing group to read your poem and provide feedback.
Overcoming Common Sestina Challenges
The sestina presents several challenges, but with practice, you can overcome them. One common difficulty is finding words that fit the required positions while still making sense. Don’t be afraid to change your initial word choices if they aren’t working.
Another challenge is maintaining a consistent tone and theme throughout the poem. Keep your central idea in mind, and make sure that each stanza contributes to the overall meaning. Finally, the rigid structure can sometimes feel restrictive. However, use this constraint as a creative opportunity, letting the structure inspire your ideas.
Refining Your Sestina: Editing and Polishing
Once you’ve finished drafting your sestina, the real work begins: editing. Read your poem critically, paying attention to every detail.
- Word Choice: Are your words precise and evocative? Do they contribute to the overall theme?
- Rhythm and Meter: Does your poem have a pleasing rhythm? Are there any awkward lines?
- Imagery and Symbolism: Are your images vivid and engaging? Do your symbols have depth and meaning?
- Coherence: Does the poem make sense? Is the narrative clear and compelling?
- Envoi: Does your envoi effectively summarize the poem and provide a sense of closure?
Make revisions as needed. Don’t be afraid to rewrite entire lines or stanzas. The goal is to create a polished and compelling poem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I get stuck with a particular end word?
Don’t be afraid to rewrite a line or even a stanza if a word isn’t working. The goal is to create a poem that flows naturally, so don’t force a word that doesn’t fit. Consider synonyms, or even slightly altering the meaning of the word.
How important is rhyme in a sestina?
Rhyme is not a requirement of the sestina, though it can be incorporated. The most important element is the repetition of the end words. Focus on the structure first, and if rhyme enhances the poem, feel free to use it.
Can I write a sestina about any subject?
Absolutely! The sestina is a versatile form that can be used to explore a wide range of themes. From love and loss to nature and social commentary, the possibilities are endless. Choose a topic that inspires you.
How do I know if my sestina is “good”?
Ultimately, the quality of your sestina is subjective. However, a well-crafted sestina will have a clear theme, strong imagery, a consistent tone, and a satisfying conclusion. Seek feedback from others and trust your own judgment.
Is there a “secret” to writing a good sestina?
There’s no single secret, but the most important elements are careful planning, a commitment to revision, and a willingness to embrace the challenge. The more you practice, the better you’ll become.
Conclusion: Unleashing Your Inner Poet
Writing a sestina is a demanding but incredibly rewarding experience. It requires careful planning, precise execution, and a deep understanding of the form. This guide has provided you with the foundational knowledge you need to embark on your own sestina journey. Remember the key elements: choose your words wisely, master the structure, and revise with diligence. By embracing the challenges and putting in the work, you can unlock the beauty and power of this unique poetic form and create a sestina that resonates with readers. Now, go forth and write!