Definition
A near rhyme, also known as an approximate rhyme, is an end rhyme in poetry that is almost, but not quite a perfect rhyme. While other poetic devices such as assonance and alliteration may create an illusion of rhyme where there is none, a near rhyme is an intentional pairing of words that almost, but not entirely rhyme. The two words must be pronounced the same from the last stressed vowel, or syllable, of the word up to the end of the word in order for it to be considered a near rhyme.
Why do poets use near rhymes?
Near rhymes are popular among poets because they can create a more subtle rhythm and sense of rhyme compared to a perfect rhyme, while still providing structure to the poem. This is especially useful when a poet is looking to break the traditional structure of a poem, but still wants to maintain a certain level of meter and rhythm. Near rhymes can give a poem a modern feel, as they are often found in more modern forms of poetry and spoken-word poetry.
Examples
Some of the most popular examples of near rhymes in poetry include: “moon” and “tune”, “bone” and “cone”, “green” and “seen”, and “neat” and “beat”. These word pairings almost rhyme, with the exception of the vowels in the stressed syllables.
Benefits of Near Rhyming
Near rhymes are beneficial to poets because they allow them to create more subtle and creative word pairings that don’t read as overly formulaic or predictable. By rhyming words that almost, but don’t entirely rhyme, the poet is able to maintain a meter and structure while still playing with the sound of the poem. In addition, poets can create interesting multi-syllabic nods to previously used words or sounds within the poem, strengthening the overall effect of the verse.
Limitations of Near Rhyming
Near rhymes can be limiting at times because they don’t necessarily flow as easily as other poetic devices. While they can help give a poem a modern feel, they can also make it difficult to find words that almost, but don’t entirely rhyme, which can lead to awkward or forced word pairings.
Common Near Rhymes in Poems
Some of the most common near rhymes found in modern poetry include: “lie” and “fly”, “shine” and “mind”, “light” and “night”, and “roar” and “door”. As these examples illustrate, near rhymes are common in popular songs, commercials, and more, making them a versatile tool for poets of all levels.
Importance of Near Rhyming
Near rhymes are an important poetic device as they allow poets to craft creative and subtle rhymes that don’t sound formulaic or predictable. They can add a modern feel to a poem and help to maintain a structure or meter while still experimenting with word sounds. Near rhymes are also quite versatile, used in popular songs and commercials as well as more traditional forms of poetry, making them a powerful tool for writers of all levels.
How Does Near Rhyming Affect the Overall Flow of a Poem?
Near rhymes can affect the flow of a poem in both positive and negative ways. On the one hand, they can add texture and complexity to a poem, creating an interesting and subtly shifting sound. On the other hand, they can be difficult to use and at times can result in awkward or forced word pairings. Overall, near rhymes are best used in moderation, as they can be a powerful tool, when used correctly.
Complexity of Near Rhyming
Near rhymes can be quite complex in their use, as the words must almost, but not exactly rhyme. This can be difficult to do, as the two words must be pronounced the same from the last stressed syllable or vowel up to the end of the word. As such, poets must be inventive in their choice of words, as the words must be similar yet unique in order for the near rhyme to work properly.
Expert Perspectives on Near Rhyming
Experts in the field of poetry agree that near rhymes can be beneficial when used properly, but can also be challenging due to their complexity. Poet and professor, Dr. William Stewart, explains, “Using near rhymes can help to modernize a poem while still maintaining a traditional feel, but can also be difficult as the words must almost rhyme, yet also be distinct enough to create an interesting effect.”
Strategies for Writing Near Rhymes
In order to write successful near rhymes, poets must be creative in their choice of words and careful in their use of the device. It is important to find words that almost rhyme, but do not completely rhyme, as this can help to create a more subtle and interesting effect. Poets should also ensure that their poems flow naturally, avoiding awkward or forced word pairings.
Difference Between Near Rhymes and Regular Rhymes
The primary difference between a near rhyme and a regular rhyme is that a near rhyme must be almost, but not quite a perfect rhyme. Regular rhymes are exact match rhymes, while near rhymes are approximate match rhymes. The two words must be pronounced the same from the last stressed vowel or syllable up to the end of the word in order for it to be considered a near rhyme, whereas regular rhymes must be an exact match from the beginning to the end of both words.
Role of Musicality in Near Rhymes
Music plays an important role in near rhymes, as the words must not only almost rhyme, but also be sung or spoken in a similar manner in order for the effect to be successful. The words must be similar enough to create a feeling of rhyme, but distinct enough to create an interesting effect. As such, it is important for poets to experiment with different word pairings and pay careful attention to the musicality of the poem.
Complexity of Near Rhyming Over Time
The complexity of near rhymes has increased over time, as poets have become more inventive with their choice of words and more conscious of the musicality of a poem. As such, poets must be both creative and deliberate in their choice of words in order to create a successful near rhyme. They must also pay attention to the overall flow of the poem, as an awkward or forced word pairing can disrupt the rhythm of a poem.
Using Near Rhymes in Other Forms of Poetry
Near rhymes can be found in a wide variety of other forms of poetry, including free verse and spoken-word poetry. They can also be used in rap and hip-hop music, as well as commercial jingles, as the subtle sound of almost-rhymes can add texture and complexity to the song or poem. As such, near rhymes are a versatile tool for poetry of all forms and styles.
