Refrain

Definition

A refrain is a repeated line or group of lines in a poem or song, often appearing at the end of stanzas. This repetition serves to create rhythm and enhance the overall musicality of the piece, while also reinforcing the central themes or emotions conveyed. It acts as a familiar anchor for readers or listeners, contributing to the structure and flow of the work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Refrains can appear in various forms, including lines that repeat exactly or those that slightly change in wording with each iteration.
2. The use of refrains can evoke emotional responses from audiences, as they create familiarity and emphasis on particular ideas or feelings.
3. Refrains are not exclusive to poetry; they are also common in songs, especially in popular music genres, where they enhance memorability.
4. In longer poems, refrains help to unify the piece by linking separate stanzas together through repetition.
5. Famous examples of refrains can be found in works like Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Raven,' where repeating phrases create a haunting atmosphere.

Review Questions

• How does a refrain contribute to the overall rhythm and structure of a poem?
  • A refrain enhances the rhythm and structure of a poem by introducing repetition that creates a predictable pattern for readers. This repetition not only helps establish a musical quality but also allows key themes or emotions to resonate more deeply. By returning to familiar lines, readers can feel a connection throughout the poem, making it more impactful.
• In what ways can refrains evoke emotional responses in readers or listeners?
  • Refrains can evoke emotional responses by creating a sense of familiarity and emphasis on certain ideas within a work. When a line is repeated, it tends to stick in the audience's mind, allowing them to reflect on its significance. This emotional resonance can heighten the impact of the themes being explored, making them feel more profound and relatable.
• Analyze how refrains can differ in their application across various forms of poetry and music, providing examples.
  • Refrains can vary significantly in their application across poetry and music, depending on the intended effect. In poetry like 'The Road Not Taken' by Robert Frost, a specific line may recur to emphasize choice and reflection. In contrast, songs like 'Hey Jude' by The Beatles use refrains that not only carry emotional weight but also serve as sing-along hooks. These differences illustrate how the same concept can adapt to various contexts while still serving its core function of enhancing rhythm and thematic resonance.

Related terms

chorus: A chorus is a repeated part of a song that usually contains the main message or theme, similar to a refrain but can vary in length and placement.

meter:

Meter refers to the rhythmic structure of a poem, determined by the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables.

alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in close proximity, often used to create rhythm and musicality in poetry.