3 Significant Syllabic Verse Poems

The syllabic verse is a poetic form requiring each line to have a fixed number of syllables, establishing a consistent rhythm. It prioritizes syllable count over stress, which is common in languages like French.

When reading syllabic verse, note the consistent, fixed syllable count per line, which creates a deliberate rhythmic pattern and influences the poem’s musicality and pacing.

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The Fish

by Marianne Moore

‘The Fish’ by Marianne Moore uses imagery and form to objectively describe nature and humanity’s ability to survive and mature in the face of death, destruction, and loss.

This poem is crafted in a structured syllabic verse rather than free verse. The poem is divided into eight stanzas, each comprising five lines. The rhyme scheme of the stanzas adheres to an a-a-b-b-c pattern. Each stanza follows a strict syllabic count of 1, 3, 9, 6, 8 syllables per line, respectively. This meticulous construction echoes the ebb and flow of the ocean, as the variation in line lengths evokes the rhythmic movement and dynamic quality of the sea's waves.

wade

through black jade.

Of the crow-blue mussel-shells, one keeps

adjusting the ash-heaps;

opening and shutting itself like

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Our Deepest Fear

by Marianne Williamson

‘Our Deepest Fear’ by Marianne Williamson is a popular contemporary poem. It addresses themes of spirituality and inner power.

The poem's foundation lies in its deliberate stress patterning, anchored by the powerful opening parallel lines "our DEEPest FEAR." Throughout, Williamson maintains a controlled stress-based rhythm (typically 2-4 strong stresses per line) that creates a preacher's cadence. This measured beat reinforces key phrases while allowing emotional modulation through stress variation.

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness

That most frightens us.

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The Annunciation

by Elizabeth Jennings

‘The Annunciation’ is a deeply thoughtful depiction of the moment Mary learned she’d carry the son of God.

The form of 'The Annunciation' by Elizabeth Jennings is Syllabic Verse. The poem consists of four stanzas, each with six lines. It features a structured pattern but does not adhere strictly to traditional rhyme schemes or meters, focusing instead on the number of syllables per line and the overall rhythmic flow.

Nothing will ease the pain to come

Though now she sits in ecstasy

And lets it have its way with her.

The angel’s shadow in the room

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3 Significant Syllabic Verse Poems

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3 Significant Syllabic Verse Poems

The Fish

by Marianne Moore

Our Deepest Fear

by Marianne Williamson

The Annunciation

by Elizabeth Jennings

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