Poetry Dances - Rondeau Poem - Instructions and Examples

A rondeau is a type of poem with a musical rhythm and a repeating line, often used for light or thoughtful topics. It has 15 lines split into three stanzas, usually with eight- or ten-syllable lines.

The poem has only two rhyme sounds and a short refrain (a few words from the first line) that repeats at the end of the second and third stanzas. The usual rhyme pattern is aabba aabR aabbaR, where R is the refrain.

Example

Two Silver Rings

Two silver rings speak for my heart: (rhyme: a)
In graven script they here impart (a)
For outward eyes, signs of my care, (b)
Unspoken oaths, no vows to swear (b)
Save in silence: "never apart". (a)

"You and no other" is the start; (a)
Of Love's French tongue, the counterpart; (a)
One-half the truth that they declare, (b)
Two silver rings. (Refrain)

"Joy without end", to ne'er depart (a)
Promise piercing as a dart; (a)
Unfading gladness, ours to share (b)
Lovers fulfilled in our world where (b)
We'll live the truth proclaimed in art: (a)
Two silver rings. (Refrain)

Forever in my Heart

Waves crashing onto rocks 'neath pale moon's light;
The restless sea sings pensive songs tonight.
I mourn the day when God took you away.
And though you said your heart would always stay,
Tonight my only solace is to write.

We met here long ago one starry night;
Love's magic overtook us at first sight.
Embracing on sea's cliffs that fateful day,
Waves crashing onto rocks...

Our love bloomed forth, and you were life's delight,
Each day you grew more lovely in my sight.
One day, on Angel's wings you flew God's way;
Within my heart, my love, you'll always stay.
Tears fall as I remember you tonight,
Waves crashing onto rocks...

The repeating line (refrain) makes the rondeau sound like a gentle echo. It’s a great form for expressing memory, love, or reflection.