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Blank Verse

Definition

Blank verse is unrhymed poetry written in iambic pentameter, which consists of lines with ten syllables where every second syllable is stressed.

Analogy

Think of blank verse like walking up stairs - each step has two beats (syllables), with every other step being emphasized. Similarly, in blank verse, each line has ten syllables with every other syllable being stressed.

Related terms

Iambic Pentameter: Iambic pentameter is a metrical pattern consisting of five pairs of unstressed and stressed syllables per line.

Sonnet: A sonnet is a 14-line poem that follows a specific rhyme scheme and often explores themes of love or beauty.

Free Verse: Free verse is poetry that does not follow any specific meter or rhyme scheme, allowing for more flexibility and creativity in its structure.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.