Can you write your own ballad poem?

Often dismissed as an arcane form, ballad poetry remains a delightful and accessible way to express complex emotions and narratives. Unlike lengthy books, ballad poems capture stories in just a few stanzas, making them a fun and speedy alternative. If you're intrigued by the idea of writing your own ballad, this guide is perfect for you.

Understanding the Basics of Ballad Poetry

Ballad poetry is a form that combines narrative and verse to tell a story, often with a focus on oral tradition and melodious rhythms. It typically tells a story through a series of concise stanzas, making it an ideal format for sharing tales of adventure, romance, or historical events. The structure of a ballad is usually four-line stanzas with a rhyme scheme of ABAB, although this can vary.

Steps to Writing Your Own Ballad

Choose a Theme: Decide on the core of your story. It could be love, adventure, tragedy, or a moment that profoundly affected you. For instance, the story in the provided example revolves around a character named Jerry wanting to go on a boat ride while his friend Christoph is undecided.Create Characters: Develop your characters with distinct personalities and backstories. Characters should be relatable and their motivations clear, as these will drive the plot forward. Jerry's carefree nature contrasts with Christoph's initial hesitation, which adds depth to their interaction.Establish a Setting: Define the location and time period. Your story’s world should be vivid and clear, helping the reader visualize the events that unfold. The provided example sets the scene in a morning with a walk by the water, evoking a tranquil and reflective atmosphere.Use Rhyme and Rhythm: Play with the sound of your words to create a melodic rhythm. This can enhance the storytelling and make your poem more engaging for the reader.Structure Your Story: Plan your narrative. Like any good story, your ballad should have a beginning, middle, and end. In the provided example, the poem starts with Christoph waking up, then shifts to his decision-making process.Edit and Refine: Review your draft, making necessary adjustments. Ensure the narrative flows logically and that each stanza adds to the overall story.

A Ballad Example to Inspire You

Title: Downstream Adventure

When I woke up at 6 AM,
Tired, testy and pallid,
I thought I would divert myself,
By writing out a ballad.

It would be a story
In a world where push and shove,
And money held more force,
Than decency and love.

I walked out by the water,
To greet the morning sky,
And there I saw my neighbor Jerry,
A carefree kind of guy.

He said, "Hey Christoph,
Right now let's take my boat,
Unhitch it from the bollard,
And downstream we will float."

We’ll see the twinkling villages,
The fields of trees and hay,
We’ll drink some beer and look around,
Fun! Want to come along?

We’ll try to find some loveliness,
In this loveless land,
So leave a note for Frieda,
I’m sure she’ll understand."

I felt a little better then,
So I walked back home,
And began a note for Frieda,
And then wrote out this poem:

The beginning of a ballad...
Will I soon add more,
Or should I go to sleep again,
Up on the second floor?

I can't decide, make up my mind,
Just what ought I to do,
Drift downstream with Jerry,
Or stay home, What would you?

Conclusion

Writing a ballad poem can be both a rewarding and challenging task. It allows you to explore different themes, characters, and settings all within a few stanzas. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, give it a try. The process of crafting your own story in this form can be a delightful journey of creativity and self-expression.