Meter

Definition

Meter is the rhythmic structure of verses in poetry, established through a pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables. It creates the tempo and musicality of a poem, allowing poets to convey emotion and meaning in a structured form. Different types of meter can emphasize various aspects of a poem, influencing how it is read and understood.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dryden utilized various metrical forms, including heroic couplets, which are pairs of rhymed lines in iambic pentameter, showcasing his mastery over meter.
2. Wordsworth believed that meter should reflect the natural speech patterns of everyday language, leading to innovations in his poetic style that emphasized simplicity and clarity.
3. Different meters evoke different emotional responses; for example, iambic meter often conveys a sense of balance and stability, while irregular meters can create tension or urgency.
4. The use of meter in poetry not only structures the poem but also impacts its musicality, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience for the reader.
5. In both Dryden and Wordsworth's works, meter serves as a key element that supports their thematic intentions and character development within their poetry.

Review Questions

• How did Dryden's innovations in meter influence the evolution of English poetry?
  • Dryden's use of heroic couplets marked a significant shift in English poetry by introducing a more structured form that emphasized rhyme and rhythm. His innovations allowed poets to explore complex themes within a cohesive framework, making meter an essential tool for expression. The rhythmic patterns he employed influenced later poets by establishing a standard for elegance and sophistication in verse.
• In what ways did Wordsworth's approach to meter reflect his poetic philosophy and contribute to his major works?
  • Wordsworth's approach to meter emphasized natural speech and everyday language, aligning with his belief that poetry should be accessible to all. By using simpler metrical forms and sometimes breaking traditional patterns, he aimed to create a more authentic emotional connection with readers. This approach is evident in works like 'Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey,' where the fluidity of meter mirrors the flow of thought and memory.
• Evaluate the significance of meter in both Dryden's and Wordsworth's poetry and how it shapes their distinct literary voices.
  • Meter plays a crucial role in shaping the distinct literary voices of both Dryden and Wordsworth, reflecting their differing poetic philosophies. Dryden's strict adherence to formal meter highlights his focus on order, control, and classical influences, creating a polished aesthetic. In contrast, Wordsworth's flexible approach to meter underscores his commitment to authenticity and emotional resonance, allowing for personal expression. This divergence illustrates how meter not only structures their poems but also embodies their individual artistic intentions.

Related terms

iambic pentameter:

A common meter in English poetry consisting of five iambs, or pairs of syllables where the first is unstressed and the second is stressed, creating a rhythmic flow.

trochee: A metrical foot consisting of a stressed syllable followed by an unstressed syllable, often used to create a different rhythm from iambic meter.

enjambment:

The continuation of a sentence or clause across a line break in poetry, often used to maintain the rhythm or to enhance meaning.