1.3.2 - Assonance: The Repetition of Vowel Sounds
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Introduction to Assonance
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Today we're going to explore a fascinating sound device called assonance. Can anyone tell me what assonance might mean?
Is it about sounds?
That's right! Assonance refers to the repetition of vowel sounds within closely positioned words. For example, in the phrase 'the fleet feet,' we have the long 'ee' sounds. This creates a flow and rhythm. Can anyone think of why we might use this in poetry?
To make it sound more musical?
Exactly! It enhances the musicality. I want you all to remember this: 'Assonance helps us to dance with the sounds of words.'
Effects of Assonance in Poetry
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Now, let's talk about how assonance affects the mood of a poem. How do you think the sounds created by assonance can change a reader's emotional response?
Maybe it can make it feel more calming or exciting depending on the sounds?
Absolutely! Soft, long vowel sounds can create a calm feeling, while sharp, short sounds can generate tension. For instance, 'the low moan of the lone crow' immerses us in a sad, lonely scene. Letβs look at an example. Can anyone identify the assonance?
The 'o' sounds in 'low' and 'crow!'
Great job! Remember, assonance, like rhythm, builds the emotional atmosphere.
Examples of Assonance in Poetry
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Let's analyze a poem together. Who would like to share an example of assonance they found in one of their favorite poems?
In an excerpt from 'The Waste Land,' I found, 'April is the cruelest month.' I think it has that long 'u' sound!
Great observation! T.S. Eliot uses assonance here to emphasize contrast and deepen the thematic resonance. What does it evoke for you?
It feels like it's alive, but also sad.
Exactly the emotional complexity we see with assonance! Always look for how sound shapes meaning.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
Assonance is the deliberate repetition of vowel sounds within closely positioned words. This section outlines how assonance contributes to the musical quality of poetry, enhances internal rhyme, and affects the overall flow and emotional tone of a poem. Examples illustrate its significance in fostering a deeper connection between meaning and sound.
Detailed
Assonance: The Repetition of Vowel Sounds
Assonance plays a vital role in the auditory impact of poetry. Defined as the repetition of vowel sounds in closely placed words without necessarily repeating initial consonants, it creates a musical quality that can enhance the overall experience of a poem. For instance, in the line 'The fleet feet sweep by sleeping geese,' the repeated 'ee' sounds unify those words, creating an internal rhyme that draws the reader's attention and slows the pace, augments emotional resonance, and enhances thematic connections.
This section delves into the functional significance of assonance in poetry, explaining how it contributes to rhythm, mood, and meaning. By examining specific examples of assonance in well-known poems, students will appreciate how sound devices like assonance operate not only to beautify language but also to deepen the interpretative layers of poetic texts. In conclusion, understanding and identifying assonance allows readers to engage more fully with the poem's structure and emotional nuances.
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Definition and Function of Assonance
Chapter 1 of 2
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Chapter Content
Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds within words that are close together, but without repeating the initial consonant sounds. (e.g., "The fleet feet sweep by sleeping geese.")
Detailed Explanation
Assonance refers to the technique where vowel sounds are repeated in a line of poetry or prose. Unlike alliteration, which repeats the initial sounds, assonance focuses solely on vowels. For example, in the phrase "fleet feet sweep by sleeping geese," the long 'e' sound is emphasized, creating a musical quality that enhances the flow of the words.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine youβre at a concert where the singerβs use of certain vowel sounds makes the lyrics more engaging, similar to how assonance works in poetry. The way certain sounds resonate can make the experience enjoyable and memorable, just like a catchy melody.
Internal Rhyme and Flow
Chapter 2 of 2
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Chapter Content
Assonance creates an internal rhyme effect, contributing to the poem's musicality, creating a sense of unity, and often slowing the pace of a line.
Detailed Explanation
When poets use assonance, it can create a subtle rhythm and cohesion within a line. The regular repetition of vowel sounds acts like internal rhyme, which adds to the poem's overall sound quality. This effect not only makes the poetry sound harmonious but can also influence how quickly or slowly readers naturally read the lines. By emphasizing certain sounds, poets can control the speed and emotion of the reading experience.
Examples & Analogies
Think about how certain songs have a slow, soothing vibe due to their repeated sounds, making you feel a certain way. Similarly, when you read poetry with assonance, the internal rhyme can slow you down, encouraging reflection and a deeper connection with the text.
Key Concepts
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Assonance: The repetition of vowel sounds, enhancing the musicality of poetry.
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Internal Rhyme: A key effect of assonance that contributes to rhythm.
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Mood: How vowel sounds create emotional resonance in poetry.
Examples & Applications
In 'The fleet feet sweep by sleeping geese,' the assonance of 'ee' sounds emphasizes harmony and flow.
In the line 'The low moan of the lone crow,' the repetition of the 'o' sound adds to the somber mood.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
Assonance sings, like vowels in rings.
Stories
Imagine a poet writing by a serene lake, using assonance to make the water ripple with sound, echoing in harmony like the 'ee' in 'sweep' and 'sleep.'
Memory Tools
To remember assonance, think: 'A Vowel's Echo In Poetic Flow.'
Acronyms
Remember 'AVOID' - Assonance Vowel Over Internal Dissonance.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Assonance
The repetition of vowel sounds within closely positioned words without repeating initial consonants.
- Internal Rhyme
A rhyme that occurs within a single line of verse, enhancing the rhythm and musicality.
- Vowel Sounds
The sounds produced by the open vocal tract, including sounds such as 'a', 'e', 'i', 'o', and 'u'.
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