Refrain

Definition

A refrain is a repeated line or group of lines in a poem or song, often at the end of a stanza, that emphasizes a central theme or idea. In poetry, refrains serve to enhance the musicality and rhythm of the work, while also reinforcing key concepts and emotions that resonate with the reader.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chaucer often used refrains in his shorter works to create a lyrical quality that enhances the overall reading experience.
2. Refrains help to emphasize important themes and ideas within Chaucer's poetry, making them more memorable for readers.
3. In works like 'The Book of the Duchess,' Chaucer employs refrains to underscore emotional states, connecting with readers on a deeper level.
4. The use of refrains can also serve as a structural element, providing a sense of unity and coherence throughout shorter poems.
5. Chaucer's innovative use of refrains contributes to his unique style and form, distinguishing his work from other poets of his time.

Review Questions

• How does Chaucer's use of refrain contribute to the overall structure and emotional impact of his shorter works?
  • Chaucer's use of refrain serves as both a structural tool and an emotional anchor within his shorter works. By repeating certain lines or phrases, he creates rhythm and musicality that engage the reader while reinforcing key themes. This repetition also enhances emotional resonance, allowing readers to connect more deeply with the feelings expressed in the poetry.
• Discuss how refrains can enhance the themes presented in Chaucer's poetry, providing examples from specific works.
  • Refrains can significantly enhance the themes in Chaucer's poetry by emphasizing particular ideas or emotions. For example, in 'The Book of the Duchess,' the refrain underscores themes of loss and longing as it repeats phrases that reflect the narrator's grief. This repetition not only highlights the central emotional struggle but also helps solidify the poem's thematic coherence.
• Evaluate the role of refrain in establishing Chaucer's distinctive style compared to other poets of his time.
  • Chaucer's innovative use of refrain sets him apart from other poets by blending traditional poetic forms with unique stylistic choices. While many poets employed repetitive elements, Chaucer's refrains are carefully crafted to enhance thematic depth and emotional impact. This distinction allows his shorter works to stand out, as they convey complex emotions through simple yet powerful repetition, showcasing his skill in marrying form and content in ways that were less common among his contemporaries.

Related terms

stanza: A stanza is a grouped set of lines within a poem, typically set apart from other stanzas by a blank line or indentation.

verse: Verse refers to a single line of poetry or any composition written in meter; it is often used interchangeably with the term 'poetry.'

chorus: In music and song, a chorus is a repeated section that usually contains the main idea or theme of the song, similar to a refrain in poetry.