Blank Verse

Blank Verse poetry was popularized by Milton and perfected by Shakespeare.

Guidelines for writing a blank verse poem include:

• A fixed metrical pattern. Iambic pentameter is most often used; however, an occasional metrical substitution, including feminine verse is permitted;
  
  
• End-line rhymes, either true, identical or proximate (slant) are not permitted;
  
  
• Internal-line rhymes, either true, identical or proximate (slant) are not permitted. Blank Verse is a flexible form and many poetic forms can be adapted to it. It is well known for use in dramatic and narrative poetry.

Example

The Fortune Teller

She reads the lines of palms for golden coins
Her ears hold hoops of silver, brass and beads
That fall below her raven hair in curls
And pouty lips of ruby red demand

The patron's secrets speak in whispered words
A ring of truth surrounds the lie she tells
That prompts the woolen man and linen girls
To seek her sultry voice that calms the heart
A crystal ball, a deck of cards, her trade
And gypsy eyes of blackened hues are sage
At times the tale she weaves becomes a fact
Despite the warning signs the wary keep

Her fingers finely etch the promise sought
By soft or calloused hands that open wide

With polished nails she strokes her velvet skirt
Her dress is opulent with swirls and pleats
Aromatic scents that float on streams of air
Like wisps of breath in passion's dream of sighs

Exotic candle light that softly glows
Completes the mystical look promised here
Her subtle movements stun and haunt the mind
They hypnotize her public night and day

While hearing echoes caused by twists with turns
A lesson taught by blood and blade now passed
- written by cheyennewy