Poetry is a literary work that consists of various figures of speech expressed in a fascicle, rhythmic and emotional manner. It is one of the oldest forms of literature and can be traced back centuries. A turn, or volta in poetry, is the point where the poem or narrative reaches a climax or a turning point that changes its direction. It is a moment that gives the poem its energy and tension. The turn typically occurs at the end of the first section in a poem and marks the shift from one idea or emotion to another.
In terms of writing and literature, a turn is the moment when the author’s voice, flow and argument all make a pivot. It is the instant when the way one perceives the situation turns completely and there’s a sense of surprise. It is also a moment when the writer conveys a sudden shift in thoughts, action or emotion that adds to the overall impact of the poem. For example, a volta could be used in a poem to suddenly switch from grief or despair to happiness or hope.
In terms of its structure, a volta often refers to the second and third line in a lyric poem, known as the tercet. This is the point where the opening line is rebutted or challenged and the poem moves in a new direction. Some examples of poetic turns can be found in works such as “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe and “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost. In each of these poems, the turn occurs at the end of the first stanza and marks a shift in the poem’s tone, mood or message.
Experts in the field of poetry have long argued about the importance of a turn in a poem and the type of impact it can have on the reader. Proponents argue that a turn can add energy and tension to a poem and give it an element of surprise or unexpectedness. It can also be used to create exciting new images and perspectives. Conversely, critics argue that a turn can make a poem seem contrived or cliched. They argue that it can sometimes be used too often and can become predictable, resulting in a poem that fails to make a powerful impact.
In conclusion, it is evident that the turn in a poem is an important element that can help enhance its overall message and meaning. It is a turning point in the poem that allows the writer to shift the narrative or change the tone, direction and mood of the poem. A successful volta can add tension, surprise and energy to a poem and make it memorable, whereas an overused turn can make a poem seem contrived and lack impact.
How to Incorporate a Turn in Poetry
When writing a poem, incorporating a turn can seem daunting. However, there are various techniques that can be used to create a successful transition and thematic pivot. The most important thing is to make it clear and concise. A volta should be used to signify the change of direction in the poem and transition the reader from one idea to the next. In order to create a successful volta, it’s important to ensure the language is precise and clear, while also capturing the attention and imagination of the reader.
In addition to using precise language, writers should also focus on using strong imagery, metaphor and symbolism. These elements can be used to create a vivid and engaging transition between the old and new ideas or emotions in a poem. Writers can also use symbols and figures of speech such as parallelism, antithesis and synecdoche to create a more effective volta.
In addition to these techniques, it is also important to consider the context of the poem. Writers should think about the situation and tone of the poem and use the volta to transition from one emotion or idea to another. Finally, it is also important to consider the length and structure of the poem. A turn should occur in the first section of the poem and should be concise and powerful.
Examples of a Turn in Poetry
Turns in poetry can be seen in numerous works of literature. One of the most famous examples of a volta is seen in the poem “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost. In the poem, the turn occurs in the third stanza and marks the shift from uncertainty to certainty. In the first two stanzas, the narrator expresses uncertainty and hesitation, but in the third stanza the phrase “And that has made all the difference” is used to signify a shift in the narrator’s decision-making process.
Another example of a turn in a poem can be found in the work “Hope is the Thing with Feathers” by Emily Dickinson. In this poem, the turn happens in the third stanza when the narrator begins to describe the power of hope and its ability to transcend death and despair. The poem shifts from despair to hope as the narrator realizes the power of hope and its ability to sustain them in times of hardship.
Finally, a third example of a turn in poetry can be seen in the poem “A Red, Red Rose” by Robert Burns. In this poem, the turn occurs in the fourth stanza as the narrator expresses his eternal love and devotion for his beloved. The poem shifts from longing and desire to love and commitment, thus creating a powerful and emotional turn that resonates with readers.
Value of a Turn in Poetry
The value of a turn in poetry lies in its ability to create an emotional response from readers. A turn can be used to evoke a wide range of emotions, from hope and joy to despair and grief. It can also be used to create a pivot from one idea to another, thus allowing the poem to move in a new direction and make a powerful impact.
A turn can also be used to add surprise and excitement to a poem. This can be done by creating unexpected transitions between old and new ideas or emotions. By introducing an element of surprise and unexpectedness, readers can be drawn in to the poem and become more engaged with the narrative.
Finally, a turn can be used to express complex emotions and ideas in a succinct and powerful way. When used effectively, a turn can be used to convey a wide range of thoughts and feelings in a concise and powerful manner. It can be used to create vivid images and effective metaphors that can move readers and help them better understand and relate to the poem.
Criticism of a Turn in Poetry
While a turn in poetry can be a powerful and effective way to communicate complex ideas, it can also be overused and seem contrived. Critics argue that when a turn is used too often, the poem can become predictable and lack the power that it needs to make an impact. Another criticism of a turn is that it can be used to trivialize or simplify complex ideas or emotions. This can lead to a feeling of superficiality or triteness, which can detract from the overall power of the poem.
In addition, critics also argue that a turn can be used to obscure the poem’s true meaning or emotion. Writers can use turns to cover or deflect from the poem’s true meaning, thus rendering it less effective or misleading. Finally, a turn can sometimes be used to create a false sense of resolution or closure in the poem. This can be problematic, as it can make the poem seem contrived or absurd.
Tips for Successfully Incorporating a Turn
In order to successfully incorporate a turn in poetry, writers should start by ensuring that their language is precise and clear. The transition should be concise and to-the-point, while still capturing the reader’s attention and imagination. Additionally, writers should focus on using strong imagery and metaphor to create vivid images and engaging transitions.
In addition to these tips, writers should also ensure that the transition is meaningful and relevant to the overall message of the poem. Additionally, they should consider the context of the poem and ensure that the turn is used to transition from one idea or emotion to another. Finally, they should ensure that the turn is used in the right place in the poem and that it is the right length and size, as too much or too little can ruin the flow and impact of the poem.
