WoPoLi

Perfect Number Poem

A perfect number poem uses the mathematical concept of perfect numbers—numbers that are equal to the sum of their proper divisors. In poetry, a perfect number poem typically consists of lines whose lengths correspond to perfect numbers.

For example, the first few perfect numbers are:

6 (the sum of divisors 1, 2, and 3)
28 (the sum of divisors 1, 2, 4, 7, and 14)
496 (the sum of divisors 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 31, 62, 124, 248)

A perfect number poem could be structured using lines of 6 syllables, 28 syllables, and so on. The form emphasizes the relationship between mathematics and poetry, exploring themes such as balance, harmony, and completeness. The constraints of syllable counts based on perfect numbers challenge the poet to express ideas within a precise framework while still achieving emotional depth and coherence.

A perfect Number Poem
1+2+3=6
Hope
Be still
In the dark
1+2+4+7+14=28
Hope
Be still–
Dreams whisper soft–
Guiding hearts through night’s embrace–
Seeking light anew where children laugh and play in the day.

A variant on a perfect number poem can use word count instead of syllables. This would be an informal perfect number poem.

An Informal Perfect Number Poem
1+2+3=6
No!
Take pity?
My head hurts.
1+2+4+7+14=28
Why?
Why not?
Math is just numbers.
Numbers are not for lovers of words.
What possible benefit can be had to dabble in theories of prime and perfect?

I devised an alternative approach to the formula that presents a less intimidating version. This new method utilizes the number of letters in each word rather than the number of words in each line to represent the perfect numbers sequence. Similar to the original version, which is limited to the first three sequences, this formula also restricts you to the first two sequences: 1, 2, 3 (which totals 6) and 1, 2, 4, 7, 14 (which totals 28).
I couldn’t resist incorporating the 28-letter word, so I included the perfect numbers in this version. The equals sign is optional; I included it in these two poems for clarity. Here are the mathematical representations:
We are equal, so what’s the riddle?
I am you = Riddle.

The Long and Short of It

I vs. them; religion, macroevolution = antidisestablishmentarianism

Metal
I am ion = A metal
EDTA
I am EDTA reduced malcontentedly = ethylenediaminetetraacetates

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From the blog

About the Author: Sarah B. Royal

Sarah B. Royal’s writing defies convention. Her poetry and prose traverse the boundaries between structure and spontaneity, often weaving together philosophical inquiry, cultural reflection, and personal narrative. With a background in experimental literature, she is known for crafting works that challenge readers to engage intellectually and emotionally.

Her acclaimed palindrome performance play, 777 – A Story of Idol Worship and Murder, showcases her fascination with mirrored storytelling and thematic symmetry. In o x ∞ = ♥: The Poet and The Mathematician, Royal explores the intersection of poetic intuition and mathematical logic, revealing a unique voice that is both analytical and lyrical.

Royal’s collections—such as Lost in the Lost and Found, Haiku For You, Lantern and Tanka Too, and the WoPoLi Chapbook Series—highlight her commitment to neurodivergent expression and poetic experimentation. Whether through childhood verse or contemporary fusion poetry, her work invites readers into a world where language is both a tool and a playground.

Sarah B. Royal continues to expand the possibilities of poetic form, offering readers a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience. Her writing is a testament to the power of creative risk, intellectual depth, and emotional authenticity.

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