Petrarchan Sonnet

The Petrarchan sonnet (also known as the Italian sonnet) is a 14-line poetic form named after the 14th-century Italian poet Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch), though it evolved from earlier Sicilian roots.

Here are the basic guidelines for this poetic form:

• The poem must consist of exactly 14 lines. 
• Originally written in hendecasyllabic lines (11 syllables per line). 
• Divided into two distinct parts that work together to present and resolve an idea, question, or emotional conflict: 

A. The Octave (First 8 Lines)

Structure: Two 4-line stanzas or one continuous 8-line stanza.

Follows the rhyme scheme ABBA-ABBA

Purpose: Introduces the main idea, problem, longing, or question.

B. The Sestet (Final 6 Lines)

Structure: Two 3-line stanzas or one continuous 6-line stanza.

Follows the rhyme scheme: CDE CDE

Purpose: Responds to the octave through a resolution, answer, contrasting thought, or emotional shift.

For this event, write a Petrarchan Sonnet following the guidelines on any topic of your choosing.

Click here for submission guidelines and rules.

Submission deadline: November 20, 2026

Results: November 27, 2026

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