Styles and Techniques: Diamante

A diamante is a seven line poem that is put together in the following way;

Line 1: Noun or subject

Line 2: Two adjectives

Line 3: Three gerund form words (words ending with -ing)

Line 4: Four words about the subject

Line 5: Three gerund form words

Line 6: Two adjectives

Line 7: Synonym/antonym for subject.

Here is an example. This poem is entitled "Love".

Passion

Blazing, Fervent

Holding, Kissing, Loving

Partner, Child, Family, Friend

Smiling, Sharing, Caring

Gentle, Tender

Love

Some diamantes are arranged in such a way that the first half of the poem is about the noun or subject in line 1, and the second half is about a noun or subject related in line 7, usually an antonym of the original word. The dividing point is the space between the second and third words in the fourth line. The following is an example of this variety of diamante. It is entitled "Contrast".

Dark

Black, Cold

Veiling, Shrouding, Fearing

Shadows, Demons, Angels, Radiance

Blazing, Shimmering, Shining

Warm, White

Light

Diamantes don't have to be perfectly diamond shaped, so long as they follow the general rules. Either way, they are interesting and unique. I reccomend writing one yourself if you get the time.

~ Adam B.