Template to use when writing shers (couplets) for a ghazal

Print this template out as a guide when you are writing your ghazal

 

Couplet One

______________________________rhyme A + refrain (radif)

______________________________rhyme A + refrain (radif)

 

Couplet Two, Three & so on

_________________________________________________

______________________________rhyme A + refrain (radif)

 

Final Couplet

___________takhallus (pen name)_____________________

______________________________rhyme A + refrain (radif)

 

Things to remember:

• Each sher should be an independent poem and be able to stand on its own.
• Don't use enjambment (phrases the continue on the next line) between couplets.
• Try to keep the lines about the same length and syllable count.
• If the rhyme scheme is too difficult to maintain, just use the refrain in shers 2 and up.