Welsh poetry has a rich tradition, with strict meters and intricate rhyming patterns that have been refined over centuries. Whether you're writing an englyn or free verse, understanding these structures can add depth to your work.
The Basics of Welsh Meter
Welsh poetry often relies on syllable counting and stress patterns. The most common meters include:
- Cyhydedd fer: A couplet with 8 syllables per line, often with end rhyme.
- Cyhydedd naw ban: A three-line stanza with 9-9-10 syllable structure.
- Englyn: A strict four-line form with complex internal rhyme and syllable patterns.
Cynghanedd
/kəŋˈhanɛð/“Harmony”
Rhyme in Welsh Poetry
Welsh poetry uses both end rhyme and internal rhyme (cynghanedd). Unlike English, where rhyme is often based on vowel sounds, Welsh rhyme considers consonant patterns too.
Traditional Forms
Some classic Welsh poetic forms include:
| Form | Structure | Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| Englyn unodl union | 4 lines (10-6-7-7 syllables) | Epitaphs, concise expressions |
| Awdl | Variable, often long | Ceremonial poetry |
Modern Welsh Poetry
Contemporary Welsh poets often blend traditional forms with free verse. If you're starting out, try writing a simple cyhydedd couplet before attempting complex englynion.
For more on Welsh language structure, see our guide on Welsh sentence structure.
Practice Exercise
- Choose a simple Welsh word pair that rhymes (e.g. 'cariad' and 'canriad').
- Write a cyhydedd fer couplet (8 syllables per line).
- Experiment with cynghanedd by repeating consonant sounds within lines.
Welsh poetry rewards patience. The rules may seem daunting at first, but they create a musicality that's unique to the language.
