It usually takes a turn, called a “volta,” about 8 lines in, and then resolves the issue by the end. Sonneteers have been bending and breaking the sonnet form for ages, so share whatever you’ve got! Shakespearean sonnets use iambic pentameter and an ABAB CDCD EFEF GG rhyme scheme, but don’t worry too much about all that. How fancy you get is up to you! THE BASICS Here’s a quick list to help you get started. 14 lines (though there are “stretched sonnets” of 15 and 16 lines, too).A big idea or feeling or issue (like love, or heartbreak, or a problem to be solved).A turn, or “volta”-some kind of shift in tone or thought.Iambic pentameter in some or all of the 14 lines.Final couplet resolves the issue or problem in the sonnet.Read the winning sonnets and runners-up from our 2019 Shakespeare's Birthday Open House sonnet contest.Try your hand, see how much of this sonnet stuff you want to play with, and no matter what, enjoy the experience of writing poetry. If you would like to see more, enjoy the winning sonnets and runners-up from several previous Folger competitions.
