A "Canto" is a principal form of division in a long poem, similar to a chapter in a book. It allows poets to organize their work into manageable sections, making it easier for readers to follow the narrative or themes. The term is derived from the Italian word for "song," reflecting the lyrical nature of poetry.
One of the most famous examples of cantos is found in Dante Alighieri's "Divine Comedy," which is divided into three main parts, each containing multiple cantos. Other notable works, such as Ezra Pound's "The Cantos," also utilize this structure to explore complex ideas and emotions.