It can sometimes be difficult to understand the exact meaning of the word “consonance” when it comes to poetry, especially for those who are new to the art form. Put simply, consonance is the repetition of consonant sounds at the end of words that are close together in a poem or phrase. It is often used in poetry to create a sense of rhythm and to further emphasize certain words or phrases. When used effectively, consonance can add a subtle depth to a poem, making it more enjoyable and interesting for the reader.
One of the most common examples of consonance in poetry is the repetition of the letter “s”. This sound is used to produce a sense of hissing, which can be used to create a sibilant effect in a poem. For example, in the poem “The Vision of Sir Launfal” by James Russell Lowell:
And tho’ the world was grey with one cloud on it,
He added yet another, of deep dread and doubt –
Let one example serve for many –
In this poem, the sound of “s” is repeated at the end of each line in order to create a sense of rhythm and emphasize the words “dread” and “doubt”. This example also shows that consonance does not necessarily need to be limited to single letters, but can also be created using multiple consonants such as “d” and “t”.
In addition to the “s” sound, another effective consonance example is the repetition of “l”. This can add a serene and tranquil feel to a poem, and is commonly used in nature poems, such as Robert Frost’s “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”:
Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
In this example, the “l” sound is repeated at the end of each line to create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. This is a great example of the use of consonance to set the tone of a poem and emphasize specific words or phrases.
It is also worth noting that consonance is not limited to individual letters or sounds. It can also be used to create assonance, which is the repetition of a vowel or diphthong sound. For example, in the poem “The Chambered Nautilus” by Oliver Wendell Holmes:
Build thee more stately mansions, O my soul,
As the swift seasons roll!
In this poem, the “o” vowel is repeated to create a soft and gentle effect, while also emphasizing the words “mansion” and “soul”. This example shows how consonance and assonance can be used in combination to create a lyrical quality in a poem.
Consonance is an important device for poets who want to create a certain atmosphere or emphasize certain words in their work. By using the repetition of consonant or vowel sounds, poets can add depth and texture to their poems, and create a more enjoyable and interesting experience for the reader. Therefore, it is important for poets to understand how to use consonance effectively, in order to accurately convey their meaning in the most effective way possible.
Forms of Consonance
There are several different forms of consonance and assonance that can be used in poetry. These include alliteration, which is the repetition of a consonant sound at the beginning of successive words; and rhyme, which is the repetition of a vowel sound at the end of two or more words. Alliteration and rhyme are both very effective at creating a sense of rhythm, as well as emphasizing certain words or phrases.
It is also important to note that consonance and assonance are not limited to individual words. For example, certain phrases can also be used to create consonance, such as “hush and hushed” or “tomorrow and tomorrow”. This allows poets to create a sense of rhythm without having to rely on the repetition of individual words.
In addition to traditional forms of consonance, modern poets often make use of onomatopoeia. This is the use of words that sound like the noises or activities they describe, such as “buzz” and “hiss”. This type of consonance is often used to create a vivid and engaging poem, as well as to make the reader feel as if they are a part of the poem itself.
Impact of Consonance in Poetry
Consonance can have a significant impact on a poem, and the way in which it is received by the reader. By using a variety of consonant and assonant sounds, poets can create a sense of rhythm, which can often be very pleasing to the reader. In addition, the repetition of certain sounds can be used to emphasize key words and phrases, making them stand out and draw the reader’s attention.
Furthermore, the use of consonance can also evoke certain emotions in the reader. For example, the repetition of certain sounds can be used to create a serene and tranquil atmosphere, as well as a sense of urgency or excitement. Therefore, poets should consider the impact of consonance on their poem, and use it to their advantage in order to convey their message effectively.
Effectiveness of Consonance
The effectiveness of consonance in poetry can vary greatly depending on the type of poem and the overall message of the work. While it can be a great tool for creating atmosphere and driving the reader’s attention to certain words or phrases, it can also be overused and come off as cliched or gimmicky. Therefore, poets should be aware of the effects of consonance, and ensure that it is used in a way that complements the poem, rather than detracting from it.
In addition, poets should also consider the other elements of the poem when using consonance. For example, a poem with a poetic meter should be written with the meter in mind, as consonance that breaks the meter can be distracting to the reader. Similarly, the use of rhyme should also be considered when using consonance, as consonance and rhyme used together can create an interesting effect, or a jarring one.
Conclusion
Consonance is an important tool for poets, and when used effectively, it can add a subtle depth to a poem. By understanding how consonance works and what types of sounds can be used to create it, poets can create an engaging and enjoyable experience for their readers. Therefore, it is important for poets to consider the impact of consonance on their poem, and use it to their advantage in order to effectively convey their meaning.
