Rondel Poetry

Rondel poems are a traditional French verse form that originated in the 14th century. These poems consist of 13 lines with a specific rhyme scheme and repetition of refrains.

The classic rondel structure is ABba abAB abbaA(B), where uppercase letters indicate refrains and lowercase letters represent new rhymes. Rondels are known for their musical and lyrical qualities, as the repetition of refrains adds a melodic element to the verse.

Rondel poems often focus on themes of love, nature, or reflection, creating a sense of enchantment and elegance through their structured repetition.

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An Hour With Thee

by Sir Walter Scott

‘An Hour With Thee’ by Sir Walter Scott is a poem about the speaker’s appreciation for spending time with an unnamed character. Despite his difficult life, an hour with this person can make his situation tolerable.

Sir Walter Scott's 'An Hour With Thee' is a rondel meant to mimic the rondelai, a French verse form more commonly used in the 14th century. While this poem mimics this older form, it takes several liberties, changing the typical rhyme scheme to create couplets. As such, its a relatively unique poem where the form is concerned.

An hour with thee! When earliest day

Dapples with gold the eastern gray,

Oh, what can frame my mind to bear

The toil and turmoil, cark and care,

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An Hour With Thee

by Sir Walter Scott

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