analysing poetry Flashcards
Anaphora
the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses.
Assonance
A repetition of vowel sounds.
Caesura
A stop or a pause in a line of poetry – usually caused by punctuation.
End stop
A line of poetry ending in a piece of punctuation which results in a pause.
Enjambment
The running over of a sentence from one line to the next without a piece of punctuation at the end of the line.
Extended metaphor
a version of metaphor that extends over the course of multiple lines, paragraphs, or stanzas of prose or poetry. It creates more varied, descriptive comparisons.
Juxtaposition
Two things being placed close together for contrasting effect.
Narrative voice
The voice/speaker of the poem who is different from the writer.
Personification
Giving human characteristics to something which is not human.
Plosive sounds
“b,” “p,” “t” and “d” sounds – which can be harsh, aggressive or shocking.
Refrain
a word, line or phrase that is repeated within the lines or stanzas of the poem itself
Semantic Field
A set of words relating to the same topic. “Foul” and “Shot” would appear in the semantic field of sports.
Sibilance
Repeated “S” sounds – most often caused by “s” “ss” and “c.” These can be harsh, smooth or sickly.
Stanza
is a group of lines within a poem, usually set off from others by a blank line or indentation.
Bleak
cold, raw; lacking in warmth, life, or kindliness; not hopeful
