A poem that is composed of four-line stanzas. The second and fourth lines of each stanza are repeated as the first and third lines of the next stanza, creating a pattern of repetition and variation.
Here's why this definition is the most accurate:
* Focus on Repetition: The definition emphasizes the key characteristic of pantoums: the repeated lines that create a continuous flow of ideas and imagery.
* Stanza Structure: It correctly states that pantoums are composed of four-line stanzas, a fundamental aspect of the form.
* Variation: The definition acknowledges that while lines are repeated, they are not simply repeated verbatim. They are varied, creating a sense of movement and development within the poem.
Other definitions might focus on:
* Origin: Pantoums originated in Malay poetry, but this information is not essential for understanding the structure and function of the form.
* Themes: Pantoums can explore various themes, but this is not a defining characteristic of the form.
* Specific Techniques: While pantoums often employ certain techniques like rhyme and meter, these are not essential elements of the definition.
Therefore, the definition that emphasizes the repetition of lines, stanza structure, and variation provides the clearest and most comprehensive understanding of what constitutes a pantoum.