Background Information
Refrain is a term used in poetry to refer to a line or set of lines that is repeated at intervals throughout the poem. This repetition of a specific phrase or set of words serves to emphasize specific ideas and create a memorable poetic form. Refrain can also be used to give structure to longer poems to signify shifts between different parts of the poem. The term is derived from the Latin verb refrenare, which means “to repeat.”
The first use of refrain in poetry comes from the French troubadour lyricists of the 11th century. However, the popularity of refrain increased dramatically with the birth of Romanticism during the 18th century. During this period, poets used refrain to create longer, more complex poems and to evoke a certain emotion or feeling from the reader. Refrain has also been used extensively in folk songs and religious hymns, since they rely heavily on the repetition of certain lyrics.
Relevant Data
Refrain is used to draw attention to certain ideas within the poem and emphasise them more emphatically to the reader. It is often used to make the poem easier to remember and identify with, as the audience can easily recall the content due to the recurring phrases or ideas. It is also used to build a sense of unity throughout a poem and provide a common element that can become associated with the author or a specific poem.
The use of refrain can also be used to subvert poetic conventions or expectations. By playing around with the repetition of themes or phrases, poets can surprise their readers and encourage them to think about the poem in a new way. Additionally, refrain can help to set the tone of a poem or create a certain atmosphere for the reader.
Expert Perspectives
According to literary scholar Mary De Vere, refrain is often used as a form of contrast in poetry; “Refrain can be used to shift the focus of the poem and even provide a form of tension between the different parts of the poem.” She goes on to explain that this contrast and tension can be used to more powerfully convey the mood and atmosphere of a poem.
John Stocker, professor of English literature, echoes this view, noting that, “the repetition of a word or phrase creates a bond between the different parts of a poem, making them inseperable yet separate.” He believes that refrain can be used to explore a variety of themes and concepts in a unique and memorable way.
Insight and Analysis
Refrain is a device used by poets to give structure to their poetry and emphasise certain ideas, themes or phrases. By repeating certain lines or phrases, poets can create tension and contrast between the various components of their work, and evoke a certain emotion or atmosphere in the reader.
Refrain can also be used to provide a common form or structure to longer works, tying them together and helping to ensure the poem is concise and memorable. It is a powerful tool that can be used to great effect by careful and skillful poets.
Linguistic Structures
By using specific linguistic structures to set up a refrain, poets can create an atmosphere of expectation around the repetition of certain words or phrases. They can also use rhyming words or alliteration to create a more powerful effect; “The speckled wings of winter echo through the texts”. This combined effect of structure and poetics can greatly enhance the impact of any poem.
Additionally, poets often use a certain rhythm or meter to further emphasize the refrain. By making the refrain stand out from the rest of the poem, it can become easier for the reader to recall the poem and its content.
Emotional Triggers
Using emotional triggers in a refrain can help to create a lasting impact on the reader. By making the reader feel something or think about certain memories or experiences, the poet can make their poem more memorable and impactful. For example, a refrain of “I will never forget” can be used to evoke a feeling of nostalgia or regret, while a refrain of “the bright stars shine down” can bring a feeling of hope or joy.
Active Voice
The active voice can help to set off a refrain and give it more emphasis within a poem. Using words such as “I” or “we” can help to create a more engaging read, as the reader is being directly addressed by the poet. Additionally, the use of active verbs such as “strive” or “roar” can make the refrain stand out from the rest of the poem and create a more memorable reading experience.
Using the active voice in a refrain can also help to bring a certain feeling or vibe to the work. For example, a refrain of “we must strive” can be used to evoke a feeling of determination or struggle, while a refrain of “we will rejoice” can evoke feelings of joy and celebration.
Avoiding Sequencers and Transitional Phrases
Refrain is often used to create a distinct structure or pattern within a poem. By avoiding the use of sequencers such as “firstly”, “lastly” or “finally” the poet can ensure that the refrain stands out from the rest of the poem. This can help to create a more unified form and help the reader to remember the poem and its content.
The poet can also avoid the use of transitional phrases in the refrain. By making sure the refrain does not transition from one idea to the next, the poet can focus the attention of the reader on the repetition itself and create a more vivid experience for the reader.
Conclusion
Refrain is a powerful tool that can be used to create a more memorable and impactful poem. It can be used to create a strong structure and emphasise certain ideas or themes within the poem. Additionally, the use of active voice and specific linguistic structures can help to make the refrain stand out and create a vivid experience for the reader.
