In poetry, there are three main forms which you need to consider when discussing rhythm: blank verse syllabic verse free verse /**/ Blank verse Blank verse is a form of poetry most famously associated with the writing of Shakespeare. It uses an iambic pentameter but does not use rhyme. Syllabic verse Lines in syllabic verse follow a strict syllable pattern. When you read a poem, count the number of syllables in each line. Do you notice a pattern? What effect does this create? Free verse Free verse is a modern form of poetry where there are no rules regarding the structure or syllable count of the poems. This doesn't mean there is no rhythm, just that it doesn't follow a formal structure. Rhyming couplets A rhyming couplet is a pair of lines that rhyme. Writing in a series of rhyming couplets creates a definite rhythm to the poem. Also, single ideas are often contained within the couplet. Sometimes poets use a couplet to conclude a poem or to stand out from the rest of the poem. Often rhyming couplets will be lines of equal length in order to add to the sense of rhythm. Irregularites in line length If a poet breaks the rule of the number of syllables in a line, do not assume that it is poor poetry or a mistake. Has the poet used a longer or shorter line and break in the rhythm in order to draw attention to that line? Use of repetition A common technique is the use of repetition in poetry. A poet may repeat a particular phrase. Why is that phrase being repeated? How does it relate to the overall theme of the poem? Is the phrase altered in anyway? Is the phrase a question or memory? Does the repetition contribute to the rhythm? Line, length and pace The length of lines in a poem can be a big clue in understanding a poem. Are all the lines of equal length? If not, then which lines stand out, either as being long or short? Does the poet draw attention to certain words because of the layout of the lines? What effect does the line length have on the way you read the poem? If the poem is entirely made of short lines then do you read the poem quickly? Has the poet put a single word or phrase on a separate line? Why? What does this suggest to the reader? General questions How is rhythm used to create a sense of energy, loss, pain, calm? How does the rhythm of the poem reflect the mood or ideas of the poem? Are specific sounds used, such as onomatopoeia?