---
title: "Shift — AP Lit Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "A shift is a significant change in tone, perspective, subject, or structure that creates contrast. Spotting shifts is the engine of AP Lit analysis essays."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-lit/key-terms/shift"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP English Literature"
---

# Shift — AP Lit Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

A shift in a poem refers to a significant change or movement in tone, perspective, subject matter, or structure. It can occur within a single line or throughout the entire poem.

## Related Study Guides

- [2.3 Analyzing word choice to find meaning](/ap-lit/unit-2/word-choice-poetry/study-guide/DH2kIxAaZKPcBJZuSMMh)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Tone shift: A change in attitude or mood conveyed by the speaker's words.
- Structural shift: A change in the organization or pattern of stanzas, rhyme scheme, or meter within a poem.
- Subject matter shift: A transition from one topic to another within the content of the poem.