Defining Repetition in Poetry
Repetition in poetry is a rhetorical device used in literature, drama and poetry, in which a word, phrase, or image is repeated for emphasis. It can enhance the lyrical quality of the text, create a tone and draw attention to key points. Repetition helps the poet to create a sense of rhythm in their poem and helps to emphasize key ideas or themes. Repetition can be used to create a sense of unity and flow in a poem, or to create an atmosphere and evoke emotion.
Types of Repetition in Poetry
Repetition in poetry can take many forms, such as alliteration, assonance, anaphora, epistrophe, and chorus. Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds, usually at the beginning of words, such as “p” and “b” in the phrase “purple berries”. Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds, such as “i” and “e” in the phrase “silly bees”. Anaphora is the repeated use of a phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences, such as “I will sing a song of sorrow”. Epistrophe is the repeated use of a phrase at the end of successive clauses or sentences, such as “we do not forget, we will not forget”. Chorus is the repetition of a phrase or lines throughout the poem.
Purpose of Repetition in Poetry
The repetition of words, phrases or images is often used to emphasize ideas or themes in a poem. Repetition can be used to emphasize a sense of urgency or emphasize a strong emotion. Repetition can also be used to create a rhythm or flow in the poem, colloquially known as ‘beats’. Repetition can also be used to add musicality and musical structure to the poem.
Examples of Repetition in Poetry
Examples of repetition in poetry can be found in the works of some of the world’s most famous poets, such as William Wordsworth’s “I wandered lonely as a cloud”. This poem contains repeated phrases such as “I wandered” and “floating” to emphasize a sense of loneliness. Also, Emily Dickinson’s famous poem “Because I could not stop for death” contains repeated words and phrases such as “carriage” and “we slowly drove” to create a sense of urgency.
Techniques Used in Repetition in Poetry
When used in a poem, repetition can create an emotional response from the reader, particularly when the repetition of words or images is used to emphasize a particular feeling. Repetition can also used to create a sense of rhythm, which can make the poem more memorable and easier to read. The use of rhythm and repetition can also help readers to understand the poem more quickly and easily, as the repetition of key words or phrases can draw attention to the more important aspects of the poem.
Effects of Repetition in Poetry
Repetition in poetry can be used to create many different effects, both for the poet and for the reader. As mentioned, repetition can be used to create a sense of rhythm or unity, but it can also be used to evoke a feeling from the reader or to emphasize key themes or ideas. Repetition can also be used to create a sense of familiarity or shared experience, as the reader may feel that they have heard the same words or phrases before.
The Role of Repetition in Poetry
Repetition in poetry is a powerful poetic device, which has the potential to create vivid and emotional images. Through repetition the poet can convey a range of emotions and feelings, creating an emotional response in the reader. The effects of repetition can range from subtle and gentle to powerful and evocative, and it is a device which can be used to great effect when used skilfully.
Repetition and Meaning in Poetry
Repetition in poetry is a key aspect of meaning-making. Through the use of repetition a poet can create meaning and emphasize key ideas or themes. Repetition can be used to draw attention to certain words or phrases, which in turn can create a theme or idea in the poem. The repetition of words and phrases can also help to add emphasis to a particular idea or to create a more vivid image for the reader.
Cropping and Embedding Repetition in Poetry
Cropping and embedding repetition in poetry is a technique in which a poet uses repetition as part of a larger structure. This technique can be used to create a dramatized effect in the poem, and can help to draw attention to important parts of the verse. Cropping and embedding repetition can also help to create a rhythm in the poem, creating a sense of movement or flow. This technique can create new perspectives, allowing the poet to explore ideas and themes in a unique and creative way.
The Power of Repetition in Poetry
The use of repetition in poetry is a powerful tool in the poet’s toolbox. Through repetition, the poet can evoke strong emotional responses from the reader and strengthen the power of the poem. Repetition can give the poem an overall structure and can be used to create a vivid setting and atmosphere. Through the use of repetition, the poet can create a sense of unity, a sense of continuity, and a heightened emphasis on key ideas or themes.
Sounding Repetition in Poetry
Sounding repetition in poetry can help to create a sense of rhythm in the poem, as well as a sense of musicality. When creating a poem, the poet has the opportunity to create music without having to be a musician. By using repetition to create a rhythm or beat, the poem can take on a musical quality and provide the reader with an immersive and captivating experience.
Conclusion
Repetition in poetry is a powerful tool which can be used to create rhythm, evoke emotion and emphasize ideas or themes. Through repetition, the poet can create meaning and create a stronger impact in the poem. Repetition can also be used to create a sense of unity, continuity, and even to provide a musical quality to the poem. All forms of repetition in poetry can be used effectively when used well, and help to create a richer and more engaging experience for both the reader and poet.
