Which type of poem is specifically designed to tell a story?

A narrative poem is specifically designed to tell a story. This type of poem includes elements typically found in storytelling, such as characters, a plot, and a setting. Narrative poems often unfold a series of events, drawing the reader into a storyline while still using poetic devices like rhythm and imagery.

In contrast, limericks, sonnets, and haikus serve different purposes. A limerick is a form of humorous poetry with a specific rhyme scheme and meter, often focusing on a whimsical situation rather than conveying a significant narrative. A sonnet is typically a 14-line poem that explores themes of love or nature, usually adhering to a particular structure and often expressing personal emotions rather than telling a story. Haikus are brief poems that traditionally capture a moment in nature, composed of just three lines with a specific syllable pattern, emphasizing imagery over narrative. Thus, narrative poems stand out for their storytelling characteristics.