Q&A for How to Write a Sestina

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Should the lines be long or short?

Community Answer

There are no length requirements. Just try to keep the lines close to the same length, and use line breaks to your advantage.

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Question

Can I write a sestina about any topic?

Community Answer

Yes, poetry can be about anything!

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Question

Does it have to rhyme?

Community Answer

A sestina should not rhyme. You'll need to select 6 words which should not rhyme. However, you can internally make a rhyme in a sentence. That is fine and acceptable.

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Question

What is a "broken sestina"?

Community Answer

Any sestina in which the pattern is broken somehow. The end words may not be put in the correct lines, or may sometimes be omitted, or may be put in the middle of the line instead of the end - anything that breaks the rules. A pentina may also incorrectly be called a broken sestina.

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Question

Where did this form of poetry come from?

MichelleF2

Community Answer

The first sestinas are attributed to Arnaut Daniel, who wrote in the Occitan language in the 12th century.

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