A nonet has nine lines. The first line has nine syllables, the second line eight syllables, the third line seven syllables, etc... until line nine finishes with one syllable. It can be on any subject and rhyming is optional.

line 1 - 9 syllables
line 2 - 8 syllables
line 3 - 7 syllables
line 4 - 6 syllables
line 5 - 5 syllables
line 6 - 4 syllables
line 7 - 3 syllables
line 8 - 2 syllables
line 9 - 1 syllables

Example #1:

a pirates playground

the ocean is a pirate's playground
they live their lives upon the sea
battles are fought to the death
the loot is divided
they drink to those lost
set sail again
a pirate's
life for
me

Copyright © 2003 Mark Williams

Example #2:

Midnight's Breath

It came sweetly upon midnight's breath,
that turned seasons from white to green,
and brought the pre-dawn sparrows
to chirp a merry tune...
nestled securely
on, around, and 
in-between
Springtime's
warmth.

Copyright © 2005 Marie Summers