Meter

Definition: Meter is the measure of the beat in a poem. Meter is measured in feet, which are syllables.
Example: "O Captain! my captain! our fearful trip is done.
The ship has weather'd every rack, the prize we sought is won;"
Here, the meter is iambic.
Significance: Meter is important because it creates a flow to a poem that makes it sound more rhythmic and easier to read aloud.

Rhyme

Definition: Rhyming is the repetition of similar-sounding words.
Example: I do so like green eggs and ham!
Thank you! Thank you, Sam-I-Am.
Significance: Rhyming gives lines in a poem unity and can provide more flow in a poem. It also adds the the rhythm of a poem.

Rhythm

Definition: Rhythm is a pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables.
Example: The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.
In this phrase, every other syllable is stressed.
Significance: Rhythm is important because it makes poetry sound more song-like and musical. Since poetry is written to be read aloud, poems with rhythm make the poem more uniform and sound nice. Rhythm is even noticeable when read silently since the mind automatically stresses certain syllables.

Repetition

Definition: Repetition is to repeat a phrase or word over and over again.
Example: Humpty Dumdpty sat on a wall;
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king's horses and all the king's men
Couldn't put Humpty together again.
Significance: Repetition creates emphasis on a certain word or phrase.

Tone

Definition: Tone is the emotion/feelings that a poem implies.
Example: "It was a dark and stormy night...."
This phrase has a mysterious tone.
Significance: The tone of a poem greatly impacts the emotions a reader feels. A poem with a happy tone can make a reader feel happy, while a poem with a sad tone can make a reader feel sad. Even further, a poem with a happy tone but a sad meaning creates literary irony.

Interpretation

Definition: Interpretation is what someone thinks something means. In poetry, interpretation is how a reader deciphers the poem's meaning. Everyone's interpretations differ, and there are no wrong interpretations.
Example: "He was like a cheetah."
Some people may interpret this as meaning that he was fast; however, others may interpret this as meaning the boy was fierce.
Significance: Interpretation is important because it allows readers to share their varying opinions on what a poem is trying to say. Without interpretation, discussions about poetry would be less exciting because there is no variation and trying to explain and support your individual interpretations.

Metaphor

Definition: A metaphor is a comparison between two things without using the words "like" or "as."
Example: Money is going down the drain.
Significance: Metaphors are important because they allow for symbolism. With metaphors, writers can state their point without being straightforward, making the reader think and interpret more. Also, metaphors can enrich descriptions, creating lively and vivid imagery.