What is Enjambment
Enjambment is a literary device that is used in poetry to smoothly connect one line to the next, without using any punctuation. It often takes the form of a single word or phrase from one line of verse being carried over and becoming the first word or phrase of the following line. The idea of enjambment is to create an ‘enjambed’ poem, which is an uninterrupted flow of poetical thought. This can strengthen the effect of the poem and can add emphasis to particular words in the poem’s message.
The Effect of Enjambment
Enjambment can have a powerful effect on the reader, as it creates an almost hypnotic flow that carries the reader through the poem. It allows the sentiment of the poem to build up in a more natural way, as the reader is not interrupted by unnecessary punctuation. This helps to create a feeling of increased tension and suspense, which is further enhanced when it is used to bridge a short dramatical pause within a line, allowing the reader to linger in the moment.
Enjambment can also be used to create a contrast between two lines or stanzas, allowing the reader to consider the dichotomy between the two ideas. This can be very effective as it allows for deeper insight into the poet’s intention and helps to strengthen the poem’s message.
Examples of Enjambment in Poetry
The following example comes from ‘The Waste Land’ by T. S. Eliot:
“Shall I at least set my lands in order?
Lets on yonder hill; A customer, etc.”
Here, ‘Lets’ is a verb and carries on the thought from the previous line, without needing any punctuation. This subtle use of enjambment adds to the atmosphere of this poem, as it conveys a sense of continuity, making the poem appear more organic and natural.
Shakespeare also often used enjambment, for example; “Here upon this bank and shoal of time we’d jump the life to come.” Here, ‘jump’ carries on the thought and emotion of the previous line in an effortless way, which greatly enhances the poem’s message.
Use of Enjambment in Modern Poetry
Enjambment is still used extensively today in all forms of poetry, including protest and protest-related poetry. For example, in the poem ‘Change’, by poet and activist Nina Simone, enjambment is used throughout to create a powerful, uninterrupted flow and to emphasize certain words and phrases.
Enjambment can also be used to break up a poem into smaller sections, making it easier to follow the poet’s message. This technique is often used by slam poets, as it allows the poem to feel more conversational and inviting. For example, ‘World War 3 Poem’, by Canadian poet Shane Koyczan uses enjambment to break the poem into two sections, each exploring different aspects of the topic of war.
Modern Effects of Enjambment
Modern poets are continuing to push forward the boundaries of what can be done with enjambment. By experimenting with rhythms and syllable counts, poets are able to create intricate, complex poems that have great emotional impact. They are also incorporating enjambment into more traditional forms of poetry, such as the sonnet, to create poems that have the same emotional resonance as their predecessors.
Furthermore, enjambment is commonly used in song lyrics, as it allows for expressive phrases to be seamlessly connected. This makes the lyrics more engaging and allows for different layers of meaning to be explored.
Analysis of Enjambment in Poetry
Enjambment has been used in poetry for centuries, and its use has changed as society and culture have evolved. In modern poetry, enjambment is being used to create both a narrative and a conversation, as well as to more subtly explore themes and ideas. Ultimately, enjambment is an invaluable poetic device, as it allows the poet to create a powerful, emotional and evocative experience that the reader will remember long after they have finished the poem.
Conclusion
Enjambment is an essential tool for poets, as it allows them to explore complex and varied topics in a creative and engaging way. It provides an uninterrupted flow of thought, and encourages the reader to linger on individual words and phrases, allowing for a deeper understanding of the poet’s message. From classic poets like Shakespeare to modern poetically activists, enjambment is used to create thoughtful and emotive works of poetic art.
