Rhyming Square With 4 DVD

A handwritten poem with a highlighted rhyming square stanza

A rhyming square with 4 DVDs is a four-line stanza (quatrain) where the last word of each line rhymes with "DVD." This creates a tight, repetitive sound pattern.

How It Works

The structure relies on forced rhymes, where the poet manipulates words to fit the "DVD" end sound. The rhyme scheme is typically AABB or ABAB, though other patterns appear. The constraint pushes creativity in word choice and phrasing.

Main Types

Two primary forms exist:

AABB: Lines 1 and 2 rhyme, lines 3 and 4 rhyme (e.g., "glide," "ride," "guide," "tide").
ABAB: Alternating rhymes (e.g., "decide," "pride," "inside," "tide").

Some poets use ABCB or other schemes, but AABB remains most common due to its symmetry.

Where and Why It's Used

This technique appears in experimental poetry, children's verse, and songwriting. Its simplicity makes it accessible, while its constraints challenge poets to find inventive words. For example, a poet might write about technology or media, playing on the "DVD" reference literally or metaphorically.

Common Misconceptions

Many assume the form requires strict adherence to the word "DVD," but the key is matching the end sound. Words like "pride," "guide," or "tide" work equally well., while it resembles a square stanza, the focus on "DVD" rhymes sets it apart.

Worked Example

Consider this stanza:

The screen begins to glide (A)
With scenes that take my pride (A)
A story full of guide (B)
That ends with ocean tide (B)

Here, "glide" and "pride" share the A rhyme, while "guide" and "tide" share the B rhyme. The forced rhyme on "DVD" sounds creates cohesion.

I first encountered this form in a workshop focused on constrained writing. The exercise revealed how limiting vocabulary can spark unexpected creativity.