Lycia Harding Poet Free verse

Iambic Pentameter

Traditional poetry is written in METER, wherein the words in 
any given line are read/heard in syllable groups called 'feet'. 
An IAMB is a foot containing one un-emphasized syllable, 
followed by a second emphasized (or 'stressed') syllable.

PENTA is the Greek prefix for five. The phrase IAMBIC PENTAMETER
refers to a poetic format in which each line contains five iambic pairs (individually, ten alternating UN-STRESSED and STRESSED syllables). 
The result is a distinct but pleasant pattern that might be compared 
to the sound of someone (or someTHING!) walking with a slightly 
uneven gait:        ... step-STEP... step-STEP... step-STEP...

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An 'iamb' is a pair of syllables
that sound like zombies coming down the street;
First, one soft step and next, a step that PULLS.
(You'll know when one's around just by it's feet)

'Pentameter' is bound to stop them then -
It's found to top their footsteps off at ten!

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Line Gauthier August 5, 2018 at 7:51 AM Congrats on your much appreciated entry, Lycia. Your poem was very entertaining. Lycia Harding August 6, 2018 at 12:42 AM Thank you Line! Fun and challenging contest but, umm... it's still listed as open, has it been judged and I'm just not aware of it...?

Viv Wigley July 22, 2018 at 1:31 AM Yes, Poetry with a club foot. A nice explanation, Lycia. Viv x Lycia Harding July 22, 2018 at 3:02 AM Haha! Well, you know, I wanted to make a more graceful reference but there just aren't that many words that rhyme with 'syllables'. Plus - zombies need love, too! Heh heh

Lyric Man July 21, 2018 at 2:20 AM Lycia.. great respect but this is so far over my head girl!! Lycia Harding July 21, 2018 at 3:40 AM Hi Lyric! I know, huuuh? I agree but it's for one of the contestd

Susan Ashley July 20, 2018 at 10:23 AM A beautifully expressed piece Lycia. I enjoyed your explanation of Iambic Pentameter and the lovely rhythm of your write.. Beautifully expressive imagery brought your poem to life.. Warmest wishes.. ~Susan

Tom Cunningham July 20, 2018 at 4:06 AM Always found this da Dum da Dum stuff a bit hazy but you've made it quite clear. Well described Lycia. Tom Lycia Harding July 20, 2018 at 4:11 AM Thank you Tom, glad to help! This is actually for a contest that calls for a laymans explanation of a particular poetic style as well as a write displaying that style. xoxo