A nonet has nine lines. The first line has nine syllables, the second line eight syllables, the third line
seven syllables, etc... until line nine that finishes with one syllable. It can be on any subject and
rhyming is optional.
line 1 - 9 syllables
line 2 - 8 syllables
line 3 - 7 syllables
line 4 - 6 syllables
line 5 - 5 syllables
line 6 - 4 syllables
line 7 - 3 syllables
line 8 - 2 syllables
line 9 - 1 syllable Last night just before turning in for the evening, my husband called me to the front porch. We went out and heard the Spring Peepers for the first time this spring. They were very loud, and I tried to record the sounds, but my phone wasn't strong enough to pick them up.
The Peepers always remind me of when my son was about 3, and he mistook "peepers" for "creatures". On hot summer nights he would insist that we close the windows so that the "creatures" wouldn't come in. I tried to explain, but it was too late; he already had an image in his mind.
Warmish night, foggy moon glows softly
Spring peepers all around us as
We stand listening to them
Waking on their first night
"Creatures," my son said,
"Close the windows
So they won't
Get in
Here."
Really enjoying your poems. I want to try some myself. Great ideas!
ReplyDeleteI haven't heard of this one, & your subject worked great as a 'nonet'. When my class came to NYC a few years ago, we also stayed in the Poconos, & experienced the peepers. It was a special experience, so I understand what you're talking about. The added bonus is the son's mistake.
ReplyDeleteI am so impressed that you are able to turn a memory into a poem, a specific syllable poem. I love the sparseness (is that even a word?) of words within a poem, but such vivid images are revealed. Well done!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know this form was called a nonet - such a light word for heavy work. The mistake of your son is charming - and maybe more right than wrong!
ReplyDeleteYour post is a perfect example of writing from a connection. What a beautiful way to share how something happening today can trigger a memory and help produce a lovely piece of writing.
ReplyDeleteI love your sense of humor. I hadn't heard about this style of poetry either.
ReplyDeleteNever heard of the nonet. I will try one. I love the way the poem begins with a soft roll, and then the focus goes to the most important part. The dialogue is perfect for this.
ReplyDelete