Master the rhythms of English verse with a clear, practical guide.
This classic reference explains how poetry is built from meter, rhythm, and cadence, helping readers understand why lines feel musical and why some forms work better for certain moods and ideas.
This edition unfolds the subject step by step, from the basic idea of verse as a rhythm in language to the different metrical bases and foot types. It offers concrete descriptions, historical context, and numerous examples to illuminate how lines are shaped in English. The approach is practical rather than theoretical, aimed at learners, teachers, and writers who want to read verse with greater insight and craft verse with confidence.
- Clear explanations of meter, rhythm, and prosody, with relatable examples.
- Guidance on structuring lines, cadences, and stanza forms for variety and effect.
- Discussion of unrhymed and rhymed forms, including staves, odes, ballads, and lays.
- Tips for recognizing how cadence and line length influence mood and clarity.
Ideal for readers of poetry, students of prosody, and anyone seeking a practical, words-on-the-page map of English versification.