My First Latvian Daina

Try your hand at a compelling little known poem form, with coaching provided. Write up to five Latvian Dainas (in English). These can be on any subject but must respect the poem form (briefly: 4 lines each of 8 Trochaic syllables [Dum-da times 4] or 6 Dactylic syllables [Dum-da-da times 2]. A Trochaic line can have the last syllable removed [Catalectic]. A single poem can contain both kinds of line). The acceptable forms are illustrated in Pantygynt's post of August 1st, with detailed explanations given in the Author's note. Inspiration by proverbs is not essential. If you are still unsure, no problems. Any queries can be addressed to Katherine M. Kean by PM. All entries will be constructively reviewed by Pantygynt and the organiser shortly after submission (usually within 24 hrs), and you are welcome to revise your entries until the contest deadline. This contest is for novices. If you have already posted a Daina/had coaching from Pantygynt in this form, you are politely asked not to enter. Above all, have fun trying to capture the Latvian spirit of the Daina.

The contest winner will win half of the prize pool which is based on the number of entries. The second and third place winners will each share the remaining prize pool. The prize pool is currently 28.00 member dollars. There are 11 spots still open. If all open spots are used the prize pool will be 72.00 member dollars. In this contest at least 2 submissions must be made for the vote to begin.

Deadline: Contest is closed. Deadline was Monday, August 15, 2022.

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