1. Meter and Rhythm:
* Meter: The pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry. Examples include iambic pentameter (five pairs of unstressed/stressed syllables) and trochaic tetrameter (four pairs of stressed/unstressed syllables).
* Rhythm: The overall flow and cadence of the poem, determined by the arrangement of syllables, pauses, and the repetition of sounds.
2. Rhyme:
* Rhyme scheme: The pattern of rhyming words at the ends of lines, often represented with letters (e.g., AABB, ABAB).
* Internal rhyme: Rhyming words within the same line.
* Slant rhyme: Words that sound similar but don't fully rhyme.
3. Stanza:
* Stanza form: The arrangement of lines into groups, separated by spaces. Common stanzas include couplets (two lines), quatrains (four lines), and sestets (six lines).
* Enjambment: When a line of poetry continues onto the next line without punctuation.
4. Line Length and Structure:
* Line length: The number of syllables or words in a line. Some poems have a consistent line length, while others vary.
* Free verse: Poetry without a set meter or rhyme scheme, allowing for flexibility and experimentation.
5. Other Structural Features:
* Repetition: Repeating words, phrases, or lines for emphasis.
* Alliteration: Repetition of initial consonant sounds.
* Assonance: Repetition of vowel sounds.
* Consonance: Repetition of consonant sounds within words.
Understanding the underlying structure of a poem is crucial for appreciating its meaning and artistry. It helps us to see how the poet uses language to create specific effects and to convey their message.
Here are some additional points to consider:
* Structure is often linked to the poem's theme and purpose. For example, a sonnet might explore love or loss, while a ballad might tell a story.
* Structure can be both traditional and innovative. While poets may adhere to established forms, they also experiment with new ways to create meaning through structure.
* Analyzing structure is a dynamic process. There are often multiple layers and interpretations that can be explored.
Ultimately, the best way to understand the underlying structure of a poem is to engage with it actively, paying attention to the language and its effects.