A poem is a broad literary form that uses aesthetic and rhythmic qualities of language to evoke meanings and emotions. Poems can take many shapes and forms, ranging from free verse to structured formats like sonnets and haikus. They often explore complex themes and ideas, allowing for a wide range of expression.
A limerick, on the other hand, is a specific type of poem that follows a distinct structure. It consists of five lines with a specific rhyme scheme of AABBA. The first, second, and fifth lines typically have three beats, while the third and fourth lines have two beats. Limericks often have a humorous or whimsical tone, and they frequently tell a short story or convey a joke.
In summary, while all limericks are poems, not all poems are limericks. Limericks are defined by their unique structure and lightheartedness, distinguishing them from the broader and more diverse category of poetry.