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Poetry Guide: Hendecasyllabic


The Hendecasyllabic verse is a quantitative metre used by Catullus. The pattern is as follows (L = long syllable, s = short syllable, | = foot division):

L L | L s s | L s | L s | L s
(spondee | dactyl | trochee | trochee | trochee)

The first foot is also often a trochee (L s) and sometimes an iamb (s L). The last foot can also be a spondee, in which case it is a "Phalaecean" hendecasyllabic.

Another form of hendecasyllabic verse is the "Sapphic ", which has the pattern:

L s | L s | L s s | L s | L L

In this form, the second foot can also be a spondee.

Examples of Latin hendecasyllabics are Catullus 7 and 10. The metre has been imitated in English; the most important examples are by Tennyson and Swinburne. In English, the long/short pattern becomes a stress/unstress pattern, although Tennyson maintained the quantitative features of the metre:

O you chorus of indolent reviewers,
Irresponsible, indolent reviewers,
Look, I come to the test, a tiny poem
All composed in a metre of Catullus...
("Hendecasyllabics")

This form should not be confused with Hendecasyllable.

What is Hendecasyllabic Form?

Hendecasyllabic form is a type of poetry that uses lines with eleven syllables. It originated in ancient Greece and has been used in poetry for centuries. The form can be written in a variety of ways, including couplets, stanzas, and longer works, and has been used in a variety of poetic genres.

Why is Hendecasyllabic Form important?

Hendecasyllabic form is important because it has a unique rhythm and flow that can't be found in other poetic forms. The eleven-syllable line creates a sense of urgency and tension that can be used to create a variety of moods and tones. Whether the poem is joyful or somber, the hendecasyllabic form can be used to enhance the emotional impact of the words.

Examples of Hendecasyllabic Poetry

One of my favorite examples of hendecasyllabic poetry is the work of the ancient Greek poet Sappho. She wrote many poems in this form, and her words still resonate with readers today. Hendecasyllabic should not be confused with Hendecasyllable - for example, the work of the Italian poet Dante Alighieri, who used hendecasyllable rather than hendecasyllabic form in his epic poem, The Divine Comedy.

How to Use Hendecasyllabic Form to Enhance Your Writing?

Hendecasyllabic form can be used to enhance your writing by adding a unique rhythm and flow to your words. You can use the form to create a sense of urgency or tension in your work, or to give your writing a more formal or structured feel. The form can be used in any genre of writing, from poetry to prose, and can be adapted to suit your individual writing style.

The Benefits of Using Hendecasyllabic Form

The benefits of using hendecasyllabic form are numerous. The form can help you to create a unique and memorable piece of writing, whether you're writing a poem or a piece of prose. It can help you to capture the attention of your readers and keep them engaged with your words. And it can help you to explore new depths of emotion and meaning in your writing.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  • What is the difference between hendecasyllabic and iambic pentameter?

    While both hendecasyllabic and iambic pentameter are poetic forms, the main difference is the number of syllables in each line. Hendecasyllabic poetry uses lines with eleven syllables, while iambic pentameter uses lines with ten syllables.

  • What are some examples of hendecasyllabic poetry?

    Sappho is a good example of hendecasyllabic poetry. Not to be confused with Italian poet Dante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy, which was written in hendecasyllable.

  • Can hendecasyllabic form be used in prose writing?

    Yes, hendecasyllabic form can be used in any genre of writing, including prose.

  • How do you count syllables in a line of poetry?

    To count syllables in a line of poetry, you'll need to read the line out loud and break it down into individual syllables. You can use your fingers to count the syllables as you go, or you can use a tool like an online syllable counter.

  • What are the benefits of using poetic form in writing?

    Using poetic form in your writing can help you to create a unique and memorable piece of writing that captures the attention of your readers. It can also help you to explore new depths of emotion and meaning in your writing.

  • Can hendecasyllabic poetry be written in any language?

    Yes, hendecasyllabic poetry can be written in any language that has a syllabic structure.

  • How can I improve my writing using hendecasyllabic form?

    To improve your writing using hendecasyllabic form, you can practice counting syllables, experiment with different rhyme schemes and poetic styles, and take risks with your writing.

  • What is the history of hendecasyllabic form?

    Hendecasyllabic form originated in ancient Greece and has been used in poetry for centuries.

  • Can hendecasyllabic form be combined with other poetic forms? Yes, hendecasyllabic form can be combined with other poetic forms to create unique and interesting writing.

  • What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing hendecasyllabic poetry?

    Common mistakes to avoid when writing hendecasyllabic poetry include miscounting syllables, using clichéd language, and failing to experiment with different poetic styles and techniques.