I <3 the villanelle. From my book In Fine Form, again:
The form’s challenge lies in creating an interesting poem that develops, rather than merely repeats, its content. Add to this the limited ab rhyme scheme over nineteen lines, and the poet also faces the difficulty of making the poem sing, rather than grate on the ear. (p. 252)
When a villanelle works it feels tight and rollicking, almost soothing. I have two to share, from yesterday and from today.
First, Molly Peacock’s “Little Miracle” (p. 257), which begins:
No use getting hysterical.
The important part is: we’re here.
Our lives are a little miracle.
You can read the rest of the poem yourself here (scroll down to read the first comment; the poem is transcribed there).
Next, Eli Mandel’s “City Park Merry-Go-Round” (p. 256), which is not available on the internet. This poem reminds me of Joni Mitchell’s song “Circle Game” — the metaphor of a merry-go-round, obviously. Mandel’s poem isn’t, as I read it, about aging, but I can’t put my finger on exactly what I make of it. But it made me think about my own experiences of repeated, failed attempts to leash a new habit to my life routines. If you can’t find this one to read it for yourself, go back and read the Molly Peacock poem again.
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