Cinquain Basics Cinquains have five lines that usually follow a specific structure: 1. First line: One word (noun) that will be the subject of the poem; two syllables 2. Second line: Two words (adjectives) that describe the subject; four syllables 3. Third line: Three words (-ing verbs) that have something to do with the subject; six syllables 4. Fourth line: Four words (a phrase) that relate to the subject; eight syllables 5. Fifth line: One word (noun) that is similar to the subject; two syllables ________________ Sample Cinquain Water Restless, rugged Flowing, crashing, smashing Creator of valleys and crests Power