Exploring the Magic of Repetition in Poetry
Poetry has a beautiful way of playing with form and rhythm to stir emotion and deepen meaning. One form that does this especially well is the Pantoum—a poetic structure built on repetition, reflection, and musicality. Whether you’re new to poetry or an experienced writer looking to try something different, the Pantoum offers a uniquely rewarding challenge.
What is a Pantoum?
A Pantoum is a poem of any length composed in quatrains (four-line stanzas), where lines are repeated in a specific pattern. The second and fourth lines of each stanza are repeated as the first and third lines of the next stanza.
Here’s the basic structure:
- Stanza 1:
Line 1
Line 2
Line 3
Line 4 - Stanza 2:
Line 2 (repeated)
Line 5 (new)
Line 4 (repeated)
Line 6 (new) - Stanza 3:
Line 5 (repeated)
Line 7 (new)
Line 6 (repeated)
Line 8 (new)
…and so on.
In the final stanza, poets often circle back to lines from the first stanza, either reusing lines 1 and 3 or slightly modifying them to create a sense of closure.
This form originated in Malaysia and was adopted and adapted by French and Western poets. Its repetition creates a dreamlike, meditative rhythm, making the Pantoum ideal for themes like memory, loss, longing, time, and reflection.
Why Try Writing a Pantoum?
The beauty of the Pantoum lies in its ability to layer meaning through repetition. Because lines recur in new contexts, they take on new significance each time. A line that feels tender in one stanza may feel haunting in the next, depending on its poetic surroundings.
This form is also a wonderful exercise in creative constraint. The structure gently guides your writing, helping you discover depth and resonance that you might not have reached through free verse.
Tips for Writing a Powerful Pantoum
1. Choose a Central Theme
Since lines will repeat, pick a subject that can withstand reflection and nuance—such as nature, emotion, memory, or personal transformation.
2. Be Intentional With Your Lines
Each line will appear at least twice, so make them strong and flexible. They should be able to shift meaning slightly depending on their placement.
3. Play With Tone and Tense
You can slightly tweak repeated lines to alter the mood or shift perspective. This keeps the poem from feeling overly repetitive and adds dynamic tension.
4. Listen to the Rhythm
Read your poem out loud to hear the musicality. The recurring lines create a natural cadence that can feel hypnotic or soothing when crafted thoughtfully.
5. Use Imagery and Emotion
Pantoums work best when filled with vivid imagery and emotional weight. Each line should feel like a brushstroke in a larger emotional painting.
Sample Pantoum (Excerpt)
MAN DOES NOT HAVE A SOUL
By Barbara Narry-Nishanian
Man does not have … he is a soul
You and I friend, are living souls
Joshua, eleven – ‘leven
In God’s word this truth’s, clearly shownYou and I friend, are living souls
souls breathe, souls die, can be destroyed
In God’s word this truth’s, clearly told
Bible says, “man became a soul.”soul breathes, souls die, can be destroyed
God made us souls, not given soul
Bible says, “man became a soul”
who lives, laughs, cries, loves and, loves God.”God made us souls, not given soul
we’re living breathing free beings
who lives, laughs, cries, loves and, loves God
until as souls, take our last breath.we’re living breathing free beings
Joshua, eleven, ‘leven
until as souls, take our last breath
man does not have … he is a soul.
Final Thoughts
The Pantoum is more than just a poetic puzzle—it’s a form that invites you to dwell, reflect, and reimagine. Each repeated line offers an opportunity to hear your own words differently, to shift their shape and meaning like sunlight through leaves.
Whether you’re crafting a piece about personal growth, capturing a quiet moment in nature, or exploring the passage of time, the Pantoum is a poetic form that helps you slow down and savor each phrase.
So why not try one yourself? Let your thoughts echo, transform, and return in new light.
Have you written a Pantoum? Share it with us at our next Open Mic or post it in the community! We’d love to experience your voice.
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