Italian (Petrarchan) Sonnet

The Italian (Petrarchan) sonnet is a poetic form consisting of 14 lines, divided into two parts: an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines). The octave presents a problem, question, or idea, often with a specific rhyme pattern (ABBAABBA). The sestet offers a resolution or reflection, usually with a different rhyme scheme (like CDCDCD). This structure creates a contrast and development of thought, commonly used to explore themes like love, beauty, or longing, making it a powerful and flexible poetic form for expressing complex emotions and insights.