Acrostic in Literature

An acrostic is a literary device where the first letter of each verse consecutively forms a word or message. It is commonly used in poetry but can also appear in prose or word puzzles. This word or message is typically related to the poem's theme and serves as a hidden layer of meaning. Additionally, acrostics can function as mnemonic devices, aiding in memorization. Acrostic poems can take various forms, including different meters, rhyme schemes, and free verse, but the most recognizable type involves the initial letter of each line forming a word, often capitalized. Types of Acrostic Poems Telestich In telestich poems, the last letters of each line spell out a word or message. Mesostich Mesostich poems feature words or messages formed by the middle letters of words or verses. Double Acrostic Double acrostics involve words created by both the first and last letters of each line. This results in two vertical words on either side of the text. Abecedarian Abecedarian acrostics spell out alph…