Poetry in Context Key Terminology

A group of lines in a poem that form a structural unit, similar to a paragraph in prose.

• Metre

• Stanza

• Rhyme

• Line

A repetition of similar sounding words, typically at the end of a line.

• Enjambment

• Assonance

• Imagery

• Rhyme

The beat and pace of a poem due to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry.

• Rhythm

• Stanza

• Imagery

• Symbolism

A regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry, which creates a rhythmic structure.

• Stanza

• Line

• Metre

• Enjambment

The repetition of vowel sounds within words in a line of poetry. E.g. pool and school.

• Consonance

• Rhyme

• Assonance

• Imagery

The repetition of consonant sounds within or at the end of words in a line of poetry. E.g. clatter and shatter.

• Symbolism

• Stanza

• Metre

• Consonance

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell) to create a clear mental picture for the reader.

• Theme

• Imagery

• Rhythm

• Assonance

The use of symbols, objects, or images to represent deeper meanings or ideas.

• Imagery

• Symbolism

• Stanza

• Theme

The central message, idea, or concept that a poem explores or conveys.

• Consonance

• Rhyme

• Enjambment

• Theme

The continuation of a sentence or phrase from one line of poetry to the next without a pause or break (e.g. punctuation)

• Rhyme

• Ode

• Enjambment

• Imagery