The Definition of Internal Rhyme in Poetry
Internal rhyme is a type of rhyme in which a word or phrase appears within a line of poetry, rather than at the end. It is an integral part of lyrical writing and is used as a way to create a more engaging and complex poem. With internal rhyme, the poet is able to create additional layers to their work and can transform it into a more powerful expression of their thoughts. Internal rhyme adds an additional layer of creativity to the poem, and it can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the meaning and emotion of the piece.
Internal rhyme occurs when words within the same line share a syllabic correspondence, usually within the same line of a poem. It creates a more intricate poetic structure and adds harmonic and musical elements to the poem. An example of internal rhyme would be the phrase “swaying gracefully” in which both “swaying” and “gracefully” share a similar rhyme. This type of rhyme can also be extended over several lines of a poem and is often referred to as “enjambment rhyme.”
The History of Internal Rhyme in Poetry
Internal rhyme has been used since the time of ancient Greek and Roman poets, and it has remained a popular device in poetry ever since. Early Greek and Roman poets commonly employed internal rhyme as a tool to bring out the meaning, beauty and music of their poetry. It also served as a way to add structure and cohesiveness to their lines of verse, making it easier for the reader to follow the poem. During the Renaissance period, internal rhyme was more widely used and embraced, particularly by English poets.
By the 19th century, internal rhyme had become a standard device of lyrical poetry. For example, the works of American poet Walt Whitman contain numerous examples of internal rhyme. His works use internal rhyme to emphasize certain words or phrases and to add a musical quality to his poems. In the 20th century, internal rhyme remained a popular device for lyrical and poetic expression and was used by many English and American poets.
The Benefits of Internal Rhyme
Internal rhyme can be a powerful tool for poets, as it brings harmony and music to their work. It also helps to establish a coherent structure and an overall rhythm that makes it easier for the reader to follow the poem. In addition, internal rhyme allows poets to add an extra layer of meaning, as the use of rhyme can draw attention to specific words, emphasizing particular themes and ideas. Internal rhyme also gives the poem a more unified and refined feeling which, when combined with other poetic devices, can add an incredible depth to the poem.
Internal rhyme can also be used to add humor or joy to a poem, depending on how the poet chooses to use it. For instance, using internal rhyme in the middle of a line can create a joke or clever turn of phrase, such as in the phrase “feline contraption” which rhymes “feline” with “contraption.” Similarly, internal rhyme can also be used to create an uplifting, cheerful feeling. For example, the phrase “You will be mine, sunshine” shares an internal rhyme between “will” and “mine” as well as between “be” and “sunshine.” This example creates an uplifting and cheerful tone to the poem.
Examples of Internal Rhyme in Poetry
One of the most famous examples of internal rhyme in poetry can be found in Robert Frost’s famous poem “The Road Not Taken.” In the last stanza of the poem, Frost uses internal rhyme to emphasize his themes: “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— / I took the one less traveled by, / And that has made all the difference.” Here, Frost rhymes “I” with “by” and “made” with “difference” to emphasize the choice he’s made and the importance of that choice.
Another famous example of internal rhyme can be found in William Butler Yeats’ “The Lake Isle of Innisfree.” In this poem, Yeats uses internal rhyme to add depth and beauty to his work: “I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree, / And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made.” Yeats rhymes “go” with “Innisfree” and “build” with “made” to bring harmony and music to the poem.
The Role of Internal Rhyme in Poetry Today
Internal rhyme continues to be an important part of modern poetry. Poets today use internal rhyme to emphasize certain words, to create a cohesive structure, and to bring music and harmony to their work. In many cases, internal rhyme helps to bring out the depth and meaning of the poem, allowing the poet to craft a more powerful and engaging piece. While internal rhyme is certainly not required in every poem, it is still an important tool in the poet’s arsenal and can help to elevate the poem and make it more effective.
How to Effectively Use Internal Rhyme in Poetry
In order to effectively use internal rhyme in poetry, it is important to understand how it works and how to use it properly. Generally speaking, when using internal rhyme it is best to keep the rhymes confined to a single line or, if using enjambment rhyme, to two or three lines. Rhymes that span too many lines can detract from the overall flow of the poem. Also, it is important to ensure that the rhymes used are appropriate for the poem. Internal rhymes should not be forced if they are not necessary but, if used properly, can add a great deal of depth and power to the poem.
It can also be helpful to use internal rhyme sparingly. Too much internal rhyme can make a poem sound clunky and can detract from the overall flow and rhythm. When used judiciously, however, internal rhyme can be a powerful tool of poetic expression. As with any poetic device, it is important to practice and experiment with internal rhyme in order to find the right balance and to craft a poem that conveys the desired emotion and meaning.
The Different Types of Internal Rhyme
When using internal rhyme, it is important to understand the different types available. The two most common types of internal rhyme are end rhymes and internal rhymes. End rhymes occur when two words within a single line of poetry share the same ending. An example of an end rhyme would be the phrase “twilight moonlight” in which “twilight” and “moonlight” both end in the same sound. Internal rhymes, on the other hand, occur when two words within the same line of poetry share the same sound, such as in the phrase “fiery fire.”
In addition, internal rhymes can be further divided into single-syllable rhymes, multi-syllable rhymes, and enjambment rhymes. Single-syllable rhymes occur when two words within the same line of poetry share a single syllable, such as in the phrase “happy days.” Multi-syllable rhymes occur when two words within the same line of poetry share multiple syllables, such as in the phrase “tremendous wealth.” Finally, enjambment rhymes occur when two words within two different lines of poetry share a rhyme, such as in the phrase “blowing high / kissing goodbye.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, internal rhyme is an important tool for poetic expression. By understanding the different types of internal rhyme and how to use them properly, poets can add an extra layer of depth and emotion to their work and enhance the overall structure of their poem. Internal rhyme can also bring humor, joy, and harmony to the poem, making it more engaging and enjoyable for the reader. Ultimately, internal rhyme is an essential tool for any poet and can be used in a variety of ways to bring out the beauty and meaning of their work.
