The Monchielle Stanza is a form of poetry whose lines are usually six syllables, iambic trimeter, and having a rhyme scheme of A-B-C-D-C. Additionally, this form usually consists of four stanzas. It was invented by Jim T Henriksen of Norway.
The Monchielle Stanza is composed of the following elements:
- Stanzaic, written in any number of cinquains. (The original poem suggests 4 cinquains but the stanza frame will work equally as well with 2 or more stanzas.)
- Syllabic, 6 syllable lines or if you prefer iambic trimeter
- Rhymed, rhyme scheme From Axbxb Axcxc Axdxd Axexe etc. x being unrhymed or Abcbc Adede Afgfg etc.
- Written with a rentrament L1 is repeated as L1 in each subsequent stanza.
Example
To Write A Monchielle (Monchielle)
To write a Monchielle
you start each verse alike,
third line and fifth must rhyme.
Line two and four is free
for messages sublime.
To write a Monchielle
you must abide by rules
to be the perfect bard.
Each line six syllables,
it is not very hard.
To write a Monchielle
four stanzas you must write
to get your message through.
I know it may be tough,
but something you must do.
To write a Monchielle
is fun and challenging,
it spreads like raging fire.
Although it is my style,
use it as you desire.
© Jim T. Henriksen
November 7th, 2005