Poetry Vocab Flashcards
(34 cards)
What is an accent in poetry?
The heavy beat that dictates the rhythm
Accents are crucial for establishing the meter in a poem.
Define alliteration.
The repetition of a sound or initial letter; ie. “the sea swelled and swished”
Alliteration is often used to create rhythm and mood in poetry.
What does allusion refer to?
A historical or literary reference
Allusions can enrich a text by connecting it to broader themes or ideas.
What is an analogy?
A comparison of two things alike in certain respects; ie. “scissors are to paper as a saw is to wood”
Analogies can help clarify ideas by showing relationships between different concepts.
What is an anthology?
A collection of literature, prose, or poetry
Anthologies often highlight various works by different authors on a common theme.
Define ballad.
A song in narrative, storytelling form
Ballads often tell stories of love, tragedy, or adventure.
What is a bard?
A poet
Historically, bards were known for composing and reciting epic tales.
Explain connotation.
A secondary meaning suggested by a word or phrase in addition to its literal meaning; a suggested or implied meaning
Connotations can evoke emotions and associations beyond the literal definition.
What is a couplet?
Two lines in which the last words rhyme
Couplet structures are common in poetry and can create a sense of closure.
Define denotation.
The actual, literal, or explicit meaning of a word or phrase
Denotation is the opposite of connotation.
What is an elegy?
A poet’s meditation on death
Elegies often express sorrow and reflection on loss.
What characterizes an epic?
A long poem that tells the story of a heroic figure; ie. The Odyssey
Epics often encompass grand themes of adventure and morality.
What is figurative language?
The general heading for the various figures of speech; ie. simile, metaphor, personification, allusion, onomatopoeia, hyperbole, and alliteration
Figurative language enhances the expressiveness and imagery of writing.
What is free verse?
Poetic verse with irregular rhythm and without a rhyme scheme
Free verse allows poets greater flexibility in expression.
Define hyperbole.
An exaggeration to prove a point; ie. “I must have gained a hundred pounds!”
Hyperbole is often used for emphasis or humor.
What is iambic pentameter?
A line of poetry using five iambs (one unaccented and one accented syllable); used by Shakespeare in all of his plays and sonnets
Iambic pentameter is a common meter in English poetry.
What does literal mean?
The actual, concrete meaning of something
Literal meanings are straightforward and not open to interpretation.
Define metaphor.
A direct comparison of two unlike things; ie. “You are the wind beneath my wings.”
Metaphors create vivid imagery by linking disparate concepts.
What is meter in poetry?
Rhythm established by the regular or near regular occurrence of similar beats
Meter is essential for creating the musical quality of poetry.
Who are the Muses?
Ancient Greek goddesses presiding over poetry, literature, and the arts
The Muses are often invoked for inspiration in creative works.
Define onomatopoeia.
Words that represent sounds; ie. “splash,” “bang,” and “buzz”
Onomatopoeia adds auditory imagery to poetry and prose.
What is a paradox?
A statement that seems to contradict itself but which may in fact be true
Paradoxes can provoke thought and highlight complex truths.
Define parallelism.
When words, ideas, or symbolism line up, correspond, or match feature for feature
Parallelism enhances clarity and rhythm in writing.
What is personification?
To give an inanimate object human qualities; ie. “The clouds were crying.”
Personification helps create relatable imagery in poetry.
