Poetic Form and Meter
Hebrew poetry is distinct from prose in its use of poetic form and meter to construct pieces. Meters help organize each line of a poem while also committing the poet to vary the shape of their work. Hebrew poems use an array of four monorhyme meters and five polyrhyme meters (poetry with more than one rhyme). Monorhyme meters each contain lines with the same end words, though the words may still be different. This creates a single distinct sound that envelopes the poem. Polyrhyme meters are very similar however each line contains different, unique rhyme words. Commonly used metrics in Hebrew poetry are the piyyut, petich and tarok.
Styles and Themes
Hebrew poetry has evolved over centuries, experiencing changes in its styles and themes with diverse cultural, political and religious influences over time. Ancient Hebrew poetry is considered to be biblical in origin, with religious themes and ideas set in distinct stylistic form. During this period, poets adhered to the rules of poetic form and meter but still sought to express their own creativity as written in the Psalms.
Modern poetry also draws on religious influences, yet combines it with a modern outlook to explore the history of the people and reflect on contemporary issues. The poems remain structured around a common rhythmic pattern, adhering to the rules of poetic form, yet explore more diverse themes with more personal expressions. Examples of commonly explored topics are love, war, patriotism, religion and politics.
Figurative Language
Hebrew poems also make effective use of figurative language to express a phrase, thought or sentiment in an interesting way. This often takes the form of similes and metaphors, whereby a poetic or imaginative comparison is drawn between two things or events.
Figurative language is used to pique the reader’s interest and curiosity, often evoking a deeper level of understanding or emotion in them. Writers of Hebrew poetry also employ much sound symbolism, using word sounds to create an imagery and mood that can often suggest an experience rather than merely describing it. Examples of sounds that resonate within Hebrew poetry include alliteration (repetition of consonant sounds) and assonance (repetition of vowel sounds).
Images
Hebrew poets often use imagery (words which suggest a physical image) in their poetry. By painting a vivid picture with language, it allows readers to imagine what the poet is writing about, thereby connecting them more with the poem. Such imagery is also commonly used to create a mood or atmosphere, allowing the reader to feel what the poem is trying to convey.
Final Thoughts
Hebrew poetry has a long and rich history, with its established form and meter being passed down through generations. At its core, it engages the reader through its use of poetic form and meter, engaging themes, figurative language, sound devices and imagery. Despite this, many modern Hebrew poets seek to establish their own identities, using their work to express their own thoughts and ideas by combining both ancient and contemporary influences.
Biblical Influences
Hebrew poetry has been traditionally viewed as being written with a close connection to the Bible. Many poets find inspiration from biblical verses, often directly quoting from it or indirectly referring to it in their work. This then forms a major part of the design and structure of the poem. By referring to religious sources, poets aim to bring greater meaning to the poem and gain a deeper level of understanding with their readers.
Themes and Ideas
Hebrew poets often use themes and ideas that evoke emotion and evoke a connection with the reader. These could be topics such as identity, suffering, hope and faith, examining the complexities of day to day life. By exploring these topics in a creative manner, writers of Hebrew poetry aim to draw out thought-provoking messages that can be both personally relevant or universally shared.
Poetic Devices
Hebrew poetry makes use of several poetic devices to add a greater level of depth and emotion to the work. This can include rhetorical questions, irony and paradox, which challenge the reader to explore what the poet is writing about, thus creating a more engaging reading experience. Examples also include onomatopoeia and assonance, which use words that sound like their meaning, creating a vivid image in the reader’s mind.
Metaphors and Similes
Metaphors and similes are common in Hebrew poetry, allowing the writer to make an imaginative connection between two things or events. By describing something in terms of another, it allows for a more creative description that can evoke a greater level of understanding of the topic.
This is often used in conjunction with other poetic devices, whereby the metaphor or simile highlights a deeper message within the poem. This technique has been used by some of the greatest Hebrew poets as a way to deliver a more profound message in a more creative manner.
