In poetry, what we commonly call "paragraphs" in prose are referred to as stanzas. A stanza is a grouped set of lines within a poem, separated from other stanzas by a space or line break, and functions similarly to a paragraph by uniting and dividing thoughts or ideas
. The equivalent of "sentences" in poetry are often just called lines. However, lines in poetry do not necessarily correspond directly to sentences as in prose; a single sentence can span multiple lines through enjambment, or a line can be a fragment or clause rather than a complete sentence
. Additionally, poetry can be organized into verse paragraphs when it lacks regular rhyme or meter but still groups lines in a paragraph-like form
Summary:
- Paragraphs in poetry = Stanzas (groups of lines functioning like paragraphs in prose)
- Sentences in poetry = Lines (though lines may not always be complete sentences and can be parts of sentences or clauses)
This terminology highlights the structural differences between poetry and prose while showing their analogous functions
