The sestina, a complex and rewarding poetic form, originated in twelfth-century Provence with the troubadour Arnaut Daniel. Admired and adopted by Dante Alighieri, it later found its way into Italian poetry and continues to challenge and inspire poets today. This intricate form, though demanding, offers a unique framework for storytelling and emotional expression. This article will delve into the sestina’s structure, variations, and offer guidance on crafting your own.
Contents
Sestina Diagram
Decoding the Sestina’s Structure
Unlike rhyming forms like the villanelle or triolet, the traditional sestina relies on a strict pattern of six repeating end-words across six sestets (six-line stanzas), culminating in a three-line envoi. This structure totals thirty-nine lines, typically composed in iambic pentameter, though other meters are permissible.
The core of the sestina lies in the intricate dance of its end-words. Labeling these words A through F, the first stanza follows the pattern A B C D E F. Subsequent stanzas reorder these words based on a specific algorithm, creating a cyclical progression. Visualizing this pattern can be helpful: Start with F, then alternate selecting words from the beginning and end of the previous stanza’s sequence. This generates the pattern F A E B D C for the second stanza. Repeating this process yields the following structure:
- Stanza 1: A B C D E F
- Stanza 2: F A E B D C
- Stanza 3: C F D A B E
- Stanza 4: E C B F A D
- Stanza 5: D E A C F B
- Stanza 6: B D F E C A
The final three-line envoi incorporates all six end-words. While traditional sestinas often used the pattern (B) E, (D) C, (A) F, modern variations frequently employ (A) B, (C) D, (E) F or (F) A, (E) B, (D) C, offering more flexibility.
Exploring Sestina Variations: The Circular Sestina
The 19th century saw the emergence of the Circular, or Rhyming Sestina. This variation introduces rhyme by using two sets of three rhyming words: A, C, and E rhyme, as do B, D, and F. This necessitates a slightly modified stanza pattern to accommodate the alternating rhyme scheme (ababab and bababa):
- Stanza 1: A B C D E F
- Stanza 2: F A D E B C
- Stanza 3: C F E B A D
- Stanza 4: D C B A F E
- Stanza 5: E D A F C B
- Stanza 6: B E F C D A
- Envoi: (A) F, (B) E, (C) D
Elizabeth Bishop’s “Sestina”: An Exemplar
Elizabeth Bishop’s “Sestina” masterfully demonstrates the form’s potential for narrative and emotional depth. While adhering to the classic sestina structure, Bishop’s subtle variations in meter enhance the poem’s poignant portrayal of a grandmother and child.
Crafting Your Own Sestina: A Step-by-Step Approach
Writing a sestina can seem daunting, but a structured approach can simplify the process. Begin by selecting your subject matter. Familiar topics often provide the richest material. Next, choose your six repeating end-words. These words should be evocative and central to your chosen theme. Finally, select your meter to establish a rhythmic framework.
With these elements in place, begin constructing your stanzas. Focus on telling your story within the constraints of the sestina’s form, allowing the repeating words to create connections and build thematic resonance. Remember, the challenge of the sestina lies in weaving a compelling narrative within its intricate structure.
Conclusion: Embracing the Challenge
The sestina, though complex, offers a unique opportunity for poetic exploration. By understanding its structure, variations, and crafting techniques, you can unlock the potential of this challenging yet rewarding form. Embrace the challenge, and discover the power of the sestina to weave intricate narratives and evoke profound emotions.