As will be seen on examination, the rhyme scheme is as follows: _a b b a a b b a c d c d c d_. But the quatrains may have alternate rhymes, and the sestet may consist of a quatrain and couplet or of interwoven triplets, as in the following schemes: _a b a b a b a b c d c d e e_; _a b b a a b b a c d e c d e_.
+58. Some Criteria.+ The brief lyric, above all other kinds of poetry, should be finished in form and expression. The imperfections of diction that might go unchallenged in a longer poem are inexcusable in a lyric. Delicacy of thought and intensity of feeling constitute its breath of life, and should mold for themselves a beauteous form. What is commonplace, harsh, or unmusical in expression should be avoided, unless such diction is wedded to the thought. Concrete and suggestive words are to be used rather than abstract and vague expressions. There is always a distinct gain when the poem evokes pleasing pictures.
As a rule the thought and expression should be clear; the poet should not mystify the reader nor tax too far his efforts at comprehension. Browning sometimes grievously offends in this particular. While insisting on clearness, however, we should not forget that the mystical and the musical have their place in poetry. A poem may sometimes be pleasing through its melodious and mystical character, even when it is not clearly intelligible.
Whether the poet has a distinct introduction, or whether he plunges into the midst of his theme, he should observe method and symmetry of structure; and in spite of the liveliest play of the imagination and sensibilities, he should impose a severe restraint upon himself. He should leave something to the imagination of the reader.
55. Into how many classes is poetry divided? Name them, giving the general character of each class. 56. What contradiction is there in the term _didactic poetry_? How is it saved from this contradiction? Illustrate. What points are to be considered in estimating didactic poetry? Mention some principal didactic poems.
What is poetic _satire_? What three species are mentioned? What is said of the mood of satire? Mention some well-known satires. What is meant by _descriptive_ poetry? What is said of nature in poetry? Mention some descriptive pieces, or nature epics. What are their criteria? What is _pastoral_ poetry? What was Pope's conception of it? What is its place in English literature? Mention our principal pastorals.
