VIVA LA SONNET

    This sonnet form’s a kind of song and dance
    Designed to celebrate the poet’s love,
    Some Beatrice or Laura to romance,
    What R & J’s passion was fashioned of.

    But, centuries on, this vehicle has moved
    Into new territories and explored
    Fresh subjects, moods and attitudes and proved
    Adaptable, which shouldn’t be deplored.

    As long as it still sings and keeps its beat
    Making a little argument that turns
    Before it moves to its conclusion, neat
    And tightly crafted, then it rightly earns

         The status of a sonnet to be sung
         Most joyfully, by many a lusty lung.

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