Created by Suzette Richards in 2012, a Suzette Prime is a unique poetic form that combines two distinct elements:
- Prime-numbered syllables: Lines must adhere to a prime number syllable count (eg, 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, etc).
- Philosophical insight: The poem should convey a reflective or introspective statement, often personal in nature.
Key Features of a Suzette Prime
- Syllabic Verse: No rhyme or meter is required.
- Syllable Count: Each line’s syllable count must match a prime number. Any sequence and repetition of counts are allowed.
- Line Count: There are no restrictions on the number of lines or stanzas.
- Content: The poem expresses a personal philosophy or observation with introspective depth.
- Punctuation: Use sparingly, avoiding punctuation at the ends of lines.
- Capitalization: Use lowercase for all words, except proper nouns.
- Title: The poet may choose any title they wish.
Why Suzette Prime? This poetic form is an ideal vehicle for expressing a personal philosophy within the structured framework of prime-numbered syllables.
Example
Verismo
the lips of sunset
caress teal outcrop
damp with anticipation
ever speeding up
and illuminating every last aspect
however reluctantly
as it
has to relinquish
its grip on reality
and find
blessed relief
after the day’s toil
to rest
a final burst of colour
in horizontal rainbow
celestial cymbals herald
the climax of the
verismo
whilst the setting sun reflects on how it squandered dawn
© Suzette Richards (2023)