A cinquain is a five-line poem that follows specific rules regarding its structure and syllable count.
The most common form, created by American poet Adelaide Crapsey, typically has the following syllable pattern:
Line 1: 2 syllables
Line 2: 4 syllables
Line 3: 6 syllables
Line 4: 8 syllables
Line 5: 2 syllables
Cinquains are popular for their simplicity and can be used to express a variety of themes and emotions
No 1440 Poetry Contest Sponsored by: Brian Strand written 1/17/2026
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