What is a "sonnet"?

A sonnet is defined as a 14-line poem that adheres to a specific rhyme scheme and typically includes a turn or shift in theme, often referred to as a "volta." This structure is a hallmark of sonnets, which can take various forms, such as the Petrarchan (or Italian) sonnet, which generally features an octave and a sestet, and the Shakespearean (or English) sonnet, which consists of three quatrains followed by a couplet. The distinctive characteristics of a sonnet allow poets to explore themes such as love, beauty, time, and mortality within a confined and often rhythmic format, lending a formal elegance to their expression. The presence of the turn or shift enhances the emotional impact of the poem, marking a change in perspective or a revelation that deepens the reader's understanding of the theme.

The other options describe different forms of literature that do not match the specific characteristics of a sonnet. For instance, narrative poems focus on storytelling, lengthy prose works discuss philosophical ideas, and song lyrics may exhibit varied structures that do not conform to the defined parameters of a sonnet. Hence, the features that define a sonnet, particularly its structure and thematic elements, make it distinct and