A Quintilla is a Spanish form of five-line poetry that is eight syllables (Iambic Tetrameter) in length. The rhyming scheme of a Quintilla can be in the form of the following: aabba or abbaa.
A Quintilla will also often take the form of an iambic tetrameter or a poem that consists of an eight-syllable scheme or structure. However, in this specific structure or form, there can only be two lines that can have the same or similar rhyming schemes within the poem, and, in turn, the other three lines will also have a rhyming scheme with each other as well.
When breaking up the word Quintilla, we see that it is derived from the words 'quin', which means five in the Spanish language, and 'stella', which means star. In terms of a Quintilla in poetry, it is often a poem that is made up of five lines, fitting of the name.
Example
In the Example below, the poet uses two couplets and links back to the starting rhyme in this very graphic poem:
a flickering flame, on the wall
the sound of a, coyotes call
the desert winds, singing at night
sandstorms dancing, in the moonlight
embracing lovers, to befall
Pat Bibbs
Here is a lovely example by Sharon where she uses a rhyme scheme of, a.b.b.a.a.
Your quiet cries echo loudly with pain
I feel you suffer in silence
Honest open hearts lend true credence
Comfort found in friendships gained
Toss me the key, let's free your chains
Sharon Mimi