Enclosed Rhyme

Definition

Enclosed rhyme is a poetic structure where a rhyme scheme follows the pattern ABBA, meaning that the first and fourth lines rhyme with each other, as do the second and third lines. This form creates a sense of unity and closure within a stanza, allowing for a compact expression of thoughts and emotions. Enclosed rhyme is often found in sonnets and other fixed forms of poetry, highlighting the interplay between rhythm and thematic development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enclosed rhyme is commonly used to create a sense of resolution within a stanza, making the ending lines feel particularly impactful.
2. This rhyme scheme can enhance the lyrical quality of a poem by establishing musicality through its patterned sounds.
3. Many classic poets, such as John Keats and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, have employed enclosed rhyme to elevate emotional resonance in their works.
4. In addition to sonnets, enclosed rhyme can also be found in other poetic forms such as villanelles and certain narrative poems.
5. Understanding enclosed rhyme allows readers to appreciate the structural choices poets make to reinforce themes or emotions in their poetry.

Review Questions

• How does the use of enclosed rhyme contribute to the overall emotional effect of a poem?
  • Enclosed rhyme enhances the emotional effect of a poem by creating a tight structure that emphasizes key ideas within the stanza. The ABBA pattern allows for a buildup of tension in the first two lines, which is then resolved in the last two lines. This resolution often leads to a more profound emotional impact on the reader, as it encapsulates feelings or themes in a compact way that resonates long after reading.
• Compare and contrast enclosed rhyme with other common rhyme schemes such as alternate or couplet rhymes in terms of their effects on poetic structure.
  • Enclosed rhyme (ABBA) creates a distinct feeling of closure and unity within a stanza, contrasting with alternate rhyme (ABAB), which allows for more fluidity and movement between thoughts. Couplets (AABB), on the other hand, can create a rapid pace but may lack the depth achieved through enclosed rhyme's reflective nature. Each scheme affects how themes are presented: enclosed rhyme often leads to deeper contemplation, while alternate and couplet schemes may emphasize continuity or immediacy.
• Evaluate the role of enclosed rhyme in shaping a poet's voice and style. How does it influence the interpretation of their work?
  • Enclosed rhyme plays a crucial role in shaping a poet's voice and style by providing a structured yet flexible framework for expression. This specific rhyme scheme can reflect the poet's emotional state or thematic focus, guiding readers toward particular interpretations. For instance, poets who favor enclosed rhyme might emphasize introspection or complexity in their ideas, as the structure encourages readers to ponder deeper meanings. By analyzing how this form affects their work, one can uncover layers of meaning that contribute significantly to the poet's overall artistic identity.

Related terms

Rhyme Scheme: The pattern of rhymes at the end of each line of a poem, usually represented by letters to denote which lines rhyme with each other.

Quatrain: A stanza or poem consisting of four lines, which can follow various rhyme schemes, including enclosed rhyme.

Sonnet: A 14-line poem, often written in iambic pentameter, that traditionally employs specific rhyme schemes, including enclosed rhyme in certain forms.