Using Words’ Stresses Naturally

Write a poem in iambic pentameter without using the common ‘thee’, ‘thou’ and ‘be’, instead bring in modern everyday speech.

Often, iambic pentameter feels inaccessible because of the overuse of archaic language, but the metrical pattern can work with modern day English too. Use this prompt to create a rhythmically pleasing poem that reflects contemporary language and themes. This is a good exercise to whet your understanding on how the natural stresses of words can be used in the iambic pentameter structure.