1. Change in Form or Structure:
* Metrical Alteration: This refers to variations in the regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables within a line of poetry. It can add emphasis, create a sense of rhythm, or break up the monotony of a consistent meter.
* Stanzaic Alteration: This involves changing the number of lines or the rhyme scheme between stanzas. It can create a sense of movement, contrast, or emphasize specific ideas.
* Syntactic Alteration: This involves manipulating the word order of a sentence to create emphasis, surprise, or a particular tone.
2. Change in Meaning or Tone:
* Shift in Perspective: An alteration in the poem's point of view can be significant. It might involve a shift from an objective to a subjective perspective, a change in the speaker's voice, or a transition between different characters' viewpoints.
* Transition in Mood: Alteration can be used to shift the poem's overall tone or mood. This might involve moving from a lighthearted to a somber mood, or a transition from a state of peace to one of chaos.
* Metamorphosis of Imagery: Poems might use alteration to transform imagery, creating a dynamic and evocative experience for the reader. This could involve changing the size, shape, color, or nature of objects, landscapes, or characters.
3. Change Over Time:
* Evolution of Theme: Alteration can be used to show how a theme or idea changes over time. This might involve a progression from innocence to experience, a shift in values, or a journey of self-discovery.
* Passage of Time: Alteration can be used to represent the passage of time within a poem. This could involve changes in the natural world, shifts in human relationships, or the gradual aging of a character.
In essence, "alteration" in poetry is a powerful tool used to create dynamism, variation, and depth in the work. It can be a subtle or dramatic change, impacting the poem's structure, meaning, tone, and even its overall impact on the reader.