Comprehensive Notes on Rhyme Scheme with Examples
Definition of Rhyme Scheme:
Rhyme scheme refers to the pattern of end rhymes in a poem. It helps identify the structure of the poem and aids in its interpretation.
How to Notate to Rhyme Scheme:
- Each new end sound is assigned a letter (starting with 'a', then 'b', and so on).
- If an end sound repeats from an earlier line, it is given the same letter as that line.
Examples:
From "Voices in My Head" by Ivor Davies:
- Suddenly a voice appears (a)
- I hear it in my mind (b)
- Within my head not in my ears (a)
- Not of the normal kind (b)
- Rhyme Scheme: abab
- Note: This is a regular rhyme scheme. The repetition of end sounds is predictable.
From "Falling Raindrops’ Prayer for the Broken":
- I pray for the crying (a)
- For the hurt and the dying (a)
- For those burned and screaming (a)
- For each helper crying (a)
- Rhyme Scheme: aaaaa
- Note: This is a regular rhyme scheme, where every line ends with the same sound.
From the poem by Robert Broadbent:
- Early or late, (a)
- Patient …can’t wait (a)
- Lost or your found (b)
- The world goes around (b)
- Rhyme Scheme: aabb
- Note: This is a regular scheme. It follows a predictable pattern.
From "Happy Holidays" by John Lumber:
- Christmas Eve (a)
- Oh how supreme! (b)
- When Santa comes (c)
- Every night! (d)
- Then, next day, (e)
- I just can’t wait, (d)
- When the tree is all alight. (d)
- Rhyme Scheme: abcdedd
- Note: This is an irregular rhyme scheme. The repetition of end sounds is less predictable.
Significance of Rhyme:
(a) Rhythm Creation:
- Rhyme creates a rhythmic flow within the poem, enhancing its musicality and readability.
(b) Enhanced Engagement:
- It makes reading or reciting the poem more engaging and enjoyable for the audience.
(c) Facilitates Memorization:
- Rhyming patterns make poems easier to remember, aiding in their retention and recall.
In summary, rhyme scheme plays a crucial role in shaping the structure and impact of a poem. It provides a rhythmic quality, engages the reader, and facilitates memorization. Regular rhyme schemes offer predictability, while irregular ones add an element of surprise and complexity to the poem.