Unseen Poetry Terms

Question 1

Sonnet.

Answer 1

14-line poem, often about strong feelings e.g. love or desire. It follows a specific rhyming pattern - ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, and has a volta at the end of line 8 (Petrarchan or Spenserian sonnets) or line 12 (Shakespearean sonnets).

Question 2

Give 2 effects of a sonnet.

Answer 2

It can explore the complicated human experience of romantic love.

Question 3

Dramatic monologue.

Answer 3

A poem in the form of a speech or narrative where the speaker subconsciously reveals aspects of their character while describing an event or series of events.

Question 4

Give 3 effects of a dramatic monologue.

Answer 4

It allows poets to present a dramatic situation through the eyes of a character distant from themselves.
It may suggest a self-absorbed nature.
It can demonstrate a new side to a character.

Question 5

Free verse.

Answer 5

A poem that does not rhyme or have a regular rhythm.

Question 6

Give 2 effects of free verse.

Answer 6

• It allows for greater freedom in expression; the poet can focus on language devices and images.
• It can create a sense of wildness and freedom.