How to Write a Shakespearean Sonnet

More sophisticated than your average rhyming poetry, the sonnet is sometimes considered to be the most accessible of classic forms.

In its basic definition, a sonnet is a rhyming poem of fourteen lines with ten syllables per line, generally written in iambic pentameter meaning there is the rhythm ti-tum; ti-tum; ti-tum. Although there are many different varieties, the two most common variations of sonnets are; the English sonnet - popularised by William Shakespeare, and the Italian sonnet - or the Petrarchan sonnet as it's commonly known as due to the first major practitioner Francesco Petrarch. In this workshop we focus on the Shakespearean sonnet (we've featured the Petrarchan Sonnet in a separate workshop).

Below is an example of an English sonnet, also known as the Shakespearean sonnet,  written by Shakespeare:

• A proposition is set out
  
• The proposition is then developed
  
• Either a conclusion is reached, or there is a thought-provoking finale.

If you've enjoyed this poetry writing workshop on odes, do have a look at the Petrarchan Sonnet workshop we also have in our poetry writing workshop section.

Why not submit your poem to us - Forward Poetry, Remus House, Coltsfoot Drive, Peterborough, PE2 9JX. Alternatively, poetry competition upload or email your submission to us at inbox@forwardpoetry.co.uk.