when writing poetry, should it rhyme ?

Question

long or short lines....does it matter ?
or is it all about the content ?

Answer 1

I prefer rhyming when writing, but when reading it doesnt matter to me. If the content is meaningful, rhyme is not needed. I do however always aim for a certain... flow.

Answer 2

It might be better for memorizing, to make it rhyme. But I find the best poetry is rhythmical, descriptive and an artful expression of the overall theme of the poem. Just go with what you feel. Suggestion: get someone to read your poem(s) out loud. If it sounds good to you and the reader likes it too, then take it to the masses and anyone who appreciates good poetry should(in theory) like it. So the short answer is: no, it doesn't HAVE to rhyme. As for line length... let the way the words flow decide the length of lines in each individual poem.

Answer 3

It doesn't HAVE to rhyme, but it can add a different effect. For example (gcse english is so helpful :P) the use of a regular rhythm could show repetitiveness or a dreamlike image, depending on the content. No rhyme can show that it is more natural. The long and short lines can also show different things, because if you had really long lines it goes on a bit and makes it sound more dull, while short lines show snappiness, or maybe changing your mind often. So it DOES matter, but it depends on your content to what effect you want.

Answer 4

Poetry doesn't have to rhyme at all. The length of the lines doesn't matter either. It's all about the content. Definitely.

Answer 5

The content is the most important aspect, but form is importnt too. I've written (and had published) rhyming and non rhyming poems, I also write sestinas, which are 6 verses of 6 lines with the same 6 words ending each line, but in a different, prescribed order - reads bettr than I've made it sound. If you're really interested in writing poetry, get "Writing Poems" by Peter Sansom and/or "Writing Poetry - a Practical Guide" by Julia Casterton. And please don't think you can write poetry unless you also read it. Good modern poets like Carol Ann Duffy, Patience Agbabi, Simon Armitage, etc. Good Luck

Answer 6

It doesn't have to rhyme, in fact most poems do not rhyme at all. If your lines rhyme, it can give the poem a musical effect, and/or can make the poem flow steadily effecting rhythm.

Long lines tend to draw the reader in as short lines are direct and get exactly to the point (think like imperatives).

As long as you know your subject; it is purely your choice whether you use literal or figurative language, however, the imagery (similes, metaphors, personification), aural imagery, rhythm and choice of vocubrulary will determine the poem's tone and impact on the reader.

Answer 7

I actually hate poetry that rhymes, sometimes I do write it honestly, but that's only to simplify a piece or create a child like or playful mood. Usually non rhyming poetry is more of a freeing experience for me because I'm not forced to sound cute.

Roses are red
Violets are blue
Lillies are purple
Barney is too.

Answer 8

In my humble opinion rhyme has its place but it depends on the subject matter. Rhyme is contrived and predictable. If this reflects the topic then fine but life and thus topics are rarely predictable.
Line length again could reflect subject matter. A poem I;ve studied (can't remember which) spoke of the sea, changing from long to short lines, creating a visual and rythmic pattern reflecting the motion of the tide. Simple and effective.

Answer 9

Poetry does not have to rhyme. What is important is that it has rhythm and flows.
Rhyme - when used properly, can be more powerful in conveying your message however used wrongly it can destroy a poem.

There are plenty of famous poems that have no rhymes and are great pieces of work. It just depends on what you want to do.

Try reading some Shakespeare , Keats, Yeats and Wordsworth - they are very inspiring for writing poetry.

All the best!

Answer 10

It does not have to rhyme and it can be as short or long as you wish.

Personally I like to read short rhyming poetry because I find it more amusing and I am impressed by clever use of language.

I don't like most non-rhyming poetry because it is often depressing and/or dull. There are exceptions, I just haven't seen many.