A Quatern is a sixteen line French form composed of four quatrains. It is similar to the Kyrielle and the Retourne. It has a refrain that is in a different place in each quatrain. The first line of stanza one is the second line of stanza two, third line of stanza three, and fourth line of stanza four.

Manhood belongs not to the meek.
All honor is won at a cost.
A reticent life unworthy.
All you value easily lost.
I was once unsure just like you.
Manhood belongs not to the meek.
So, stand tall when facing this world.
Cowards never find what they seek.
My hands are broken, my back is bent,
And my job is most nearly done.
Manhood belongs not to the meek.
Time to fight your battles, my son.
Those gentle eyes and chiseled chin,
Are signs that you’ll reach your own peak.
Kind men guard the common ‘good’, ‘Cuz,
Manhood belongs not to the meek.
https://dversepoets.com/2023/05/25/poetry-form-quatern/
Enjoyed this 💙
😊🤗 Glad to hear!
I love this part specially:
Manhood belongs not to the meek.
Time to fight your battles, my son.
I think its important to raise brave, kind and courageous children.
Absolutely! Kindness and bravery are not mutually exclusive. Thanks!
A message I wish more would share and embrace. Thank you, Susan.
Thank-you for reading and commenting. 😊
You’re very welcome!
Very interesting write up poem. Good message.
Yes. It was a beautiful form. I’ll use it again because a fun challenge. Thank-you. 🥰
You are most welcome! ❣️
A very interesting take on the prompt! Strength and confidence are what many strive for,
Male or female, those are great qualities. Thanks.
Yes!
Beautifully written and a wonderful message! 💖
Thanks, Eugi! ❤
Most welcome, Susan!
Manhood can go through so many paths, but we must believe in the kind man… love the message.
I glad it spoke to you, Bjorn. 👍❤
Manhood – such a fraught subject these days but this take and the poetry form are really good…
Thank-you! It ain’t easy being a man these days.