Rondeau

A rondeau is a French verse form, typically consisting of 13 lines, with two rhymes and a refrain. The refrain, usually the first few words or the entire first line of the poem, appears at the end of the 8th and 13th lines. It follows a specific rhyme scheme: aabba aabc aabbac. The subject matter often explores themes of love, nature, or personal reflection. While originating in the medieval period, the rondeau continues to be employed in modern poetry, showcasing its enduring appeal due to its musicality and intricate structure. Skilled writers use this form for its challenges and rewards.

Rondeau meaning with examples

• The sunset paints the sky with gold, And whispers secrets, softly told. The breezes hum a sweet refrain, Across the fields, a gentle rain, A story of the day unfolds. The robin’s song, now sweet and bold, As evening’s hues begin to blend, The sunset paints the sky with gold, And whispers secrets, softly told. The stars ignite as lights are sold, Of time’s swift passing, none contend, The beauty that will never end, The sunset paints the sky with gold.
• Love's gentle touch, a tender grace, A smile upon a lovely face, The heart with joy begins to leap, Within the soul, secrets to keep, The world of dreams in time and space. With tender words, in soft embrace, The spirit finds a world anew, Love's gentle touch, a tender grace, A smile upon a lovely face, The passing hours we cannot chase, We can hold each other close and true, Now I am here just loving you, Love's gentle touch, a tender grace.
• The falling leaves begin to drift, As summer's warmth starts to uplift. The autumn wind begins to blow, Where colours flow so soft and slow, The birds will sing a final gift. From higher skies the clouds will shift, As nature paints new colours due, The falling leaves begin to drift, As summer's warmth starts to uplift. The forest trees a special lift, The vibrant red and yellow hue, Will make the world feel fresh and new, The falling leaves begin to drift.
• My heart with longing, now I plead, A wish I feel, a growing need. The silence echoes through the night, My soul has fled with all its might, My deepest fears begin to bleed. The seeds of doubt, begin to breed, As hopes are washed from out of view. My heart with longing, now I plead, A wish I feel, a growing need. The future’s promise I can read, With every wish, I hold so true, And hope this wish will come to you, My heart with longing, now I plead.