Clarity Pyramid
Poetry form designed and constructed by Jerry P. Quinn.
A Clarity Pyramid is a poem consisting of two triplets and a single line (7 lines in all). Usually,
this poem is center aligned when displayed.
The first triplet has 1, 2, and 3 syllables. The title of the poem is the one-syllable word of the
first triplet, which is displayed in all capital letters. This line is followed by a two-syllable line,
and then a three-syllable line, both of which clarify the definition of the poem, or are synonyms
for the title.
The second triplet has 5, 6, and 7 syllables. Its design is based around a life event contained
within the triplet which helps give a poetic view oroutlook on the first line (title).
The last line is 8 syllables, and is in quotations as this line contains a quote that defines the first
word (title).
Example #1:
WORK
labor
exertion
walked lines all plowed straight
furrow soil, seeds and sweat
spring deposit, fall harvest
"creation’s manifestations"
Copyright © 2002 Jerry P. Quinn
Example #2:
DROP
dangled
fall away
brim bulging puddle
pushing over the edge
leaving its body behind
"lowered by prying position"
Copyright © 2002 Jerry P. Quinn
Example #3:
HOPE
outlook
firm mind-set
bees seek fresh nectar
explore today’s bouquets
return pregnant with pollen
"envision tomorrows’ honey"
Copyright © 2002 Jerry P. Quinn
Example #4:
PAINT
pigment
colorings
childhood memory
coated in bright layers
with a daisy border dream
"milky morsels plucked from rainbows"
Copyright © 2002 Marie Summers
