If you've searched for limericks on the web (that may even be how you found this page), then you've probably noticed that, amongst the billions and billions of quality verses out there, there are many, many, many that are irredeemably shite. This is usually a metric problem.
So here we have my own little definition of the limerick.
Obviously, there are five lines, in the rhyming scheme AABBA. Everyone knows that. But as far as the length and layout of the lines is concerned, opinion varies wildly. There seem to be three types of limerick writers:
Obviously, only those people who fall into the first category have Right on their side. So read on, and you too can come to the conclusion that I am correct.
The main problem is one of respect. No-one would dream of writing a sonnet in anything other than iambic pentameter, but does anyone care about the limerick? Does anyone even know what an anapestic trimeter is?
Here beginneth the lesson.
As I've implied above, limericks are anapestic by nature; that is, they consist of groups of three syllables, with the emphasis being on the last one in each case. The first, second and fifth lines are trimeters, with the third and fourth being bimetric (three and two groups respectively. Obviously).
Let's examine a few lines.
As you can see, there are three groups (or 'feet') of three syllables, with the emphasis on the last in each. If only it were that simple. You see, the first syllable in the line is optional. You can also add an extra, non-stressed syllable at the end if you like. Take, for example, one of the most famous limericks of all...
There once was a man from Nantucket
Basically, internal feet must be anapestic, while the first syllable can be iambic and the last one can be either anapestic or anapestic with a trailing, non-stressed syllable. In lines three and four there are no internal feet, so neither line has to be anapest
He said as he tumbled
I shouldn't have grumbled
See? Not an endy anapest in sight. You might consider the overlap between lines to be anapestic, but that's up to you. Personally, I think it's a good idea and quite aesthetic even if it doesn't qualify.
My personal feeling is that when in doubt, go for an anapest. Unless there was a compelling reason, therefore, in the above case I would prefer
He remarked as he tumbled
I shouldn't have grumbled
Thus we've an inital and overlapping anapest, with an extra syllable at the end. This may be unavoidable.
So there you have it. Robert's guide to limericks. I hope you find it useful, and that your creations both amuse and offend.
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