Identify Strict Internal Rhyme Schemes

Understanding rhyme schemes is a fantastic way to delve deeper into the musicality and structure of poetry. Today, we're going to focus on a specific type: the strict internal rhyme scheme. You might be wondering, what exactly is an internal rhyme? Simply put, it's a rhyme that occurs within a single line of verse, rather than at the end of lines. A strict internal rhyme scheme takes this a step further, implying a consistent and deliberate pattern of these internal rhymes. This technique is a powerful tool for poets, adding a layer of complexity and sonic richness that can enhance the poem's meaning and emotional impact. Think of it as a secret melody woven into the fabric of the words, creating echoes and resonances that draw the reader in. When poets employ a strict internal rhyme scheme, they are often aiming for a hypnotic or incantatory effect, making the language itself a significant part of the poem's message. It’s not just about what is said, but how it is said, with the sounds of the words playing a crucial role in the overall experience. This deliberate craftsmanship invites us to listen more closely, to appreciate the intricate dance of language, and to uncover the deeper layers of meaning that emerge from such careful construction. We'll be examining some examples to help you spot this sophisticated poetic device.

What is an Internal Rhyme Scheme?

Let's first break down what an internal rhyme scheme entails. As mentioned, internal rhymes happen within a line of poetry. For example, a line might contain two words that rhyme with each other, like "The cat wore a hat." This is a simple illustration, but in poetry, it's often much more subtle and artful. The term 'scheme' suggests a pattern, so an internal rhyme scheme would involve these internal rhymes appearing in a predictable or repeating manner throughout a poem or a stanza. This is distinct from end rhyme, which is the most common type of rhyme where the last words of lines rhyme. When a poet uses internal rhyme, they are essentially creating mini-rhymes within the poetic line, which can link ideas, emphasize certain words, or create a pleasing musicality. The effect can be quite different from end rhyme; it can create a more immediate and concentrated sound effect, drawing attention to the words themselves and their sonic qualities. It’s like discovering hidden musical notes within the melody of the verse. The repetition of sounds can create a sense of connection between different parts of a line, weaving them together in a way that end rhymes cannot. This technique requires a keen ear for language and a deliberate hand in crafting the verse. It’s a hallmark of poets who are masters of their craft, using every element of language to its fullest potential. The impact of internal rhyme can range from subtle to striking, depending on how it's employed and how frequently it appears. It’s a tool that can add depth, rhythm, and a unique texture to poetic expression, making the reading experience richer and more engaging.

Exploring Excerpt A: Dylan Thomas

Now, let's turn our attention to the first excerpt: "Rippling in twelve-winded circles" from Dylan Thomas's "Ceremony After a Fire Raid." Dylan Thomas was a poet known for his rich, sonorous language and his masterful use of sound devices. When we analyze this line for an internal rhyme scheme, we need to listen carefully to the sounds within the line itself. We are looking for words that rhyme with each other, occurring not just at the end of the line, but somewhere within it. In this specific line, "Rippling in twelve-winded circles," we can identify the sound of "in" in "twelve-winded." While not a perfect rhyme with another word in the line, it does create a subtle resonance. However, the core of the question asks for a strict internal rhyme scheme. This implies a clear, noticeable, and potentially repeating pattern of rhymes within the lines. Looking closely at "Rippling in twelve-winded circles," the most prominent sound connection is between "twelve" and "circles." They don't rhyme, but they share a similar 'l' sound and a certain cadence. More importantly, if we consider the possibility of slant or near rhyme, the word "winded" shares a vowel sound with "rippling." However, to call this a *strict* internal rhyme scheme might be a stretch. A strict scheme would typically involve more obvious rhyming pairs. Thomas's poetry is incredibly musical, and he certainly uses assonance and consonance (repetition of vowel and consonant sounds, respectively) to great effect, but the presence of a strictly defined internal rhyme scheme in this particular, short excerpt might be debated. The beauty of Thomas's work often lies in its dense texture and powerful imagery, where sound and meaning are intertwined in complex ways. It’s this complexity that makes his poetry so rewarding to explore, even if it doesn’t always fit neatly into predefined boxes of poetic devices. The challenge of identifying strict patterns in such rich language is part of the joy of literary analysis.

Analyzing Excerpt B: Edgar Allan Poe

Let's move on to the second excerpt: "But the raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only" from Edgar Allan Poe's iconic poem, "The Raven." Edgar Allan Poe is renowned for his musicality and his deliberate use of sound to create mood and atmosphere, especially in "The Raven." This poem is famous for its haunting rhythm and its compelling use of rhyme, both end rhyme and internal rhyme. When we examine the line, "But the raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only," we can immediately hear a strong internal rhyme. The word "raven" rhymes with "lonely" and "only." Notice how these words are placed within the line: "raven" appears early, "lonely" appears in the middle, and "only" appears at the end. This repetition of the "ay-ven" sound creates a distinct and noticeable internal rhyme. Furthermore, if we look at the word "placid" and "bust," they don't rhyme, but they create a jarring sound. However, the more prominent and intentional rhyming connection in this line is the "raven-lonely-only" sequence. This isn't just a chance occurrence; Poe is known for his meticulous crafting of verse. The repetition of the "ay" sound within these significant words helps to tie the line together sonically and emphasizes the raven's presence and its utterances. The consistency with which Poe employs such devices throughout "The Raven" suggests a deliberate and, arguably, a strict approach to internal rhyme. He isn't just throwing in a rhyme here and there; he's building a sonic architecture within his poem. This makes the reader feel the oppressive atmosphere and the obsessive nature of the narrative through the very sound of the words. The internal rhymes work in conjunction with the end rhymes (like "bust" and "thrust" in subsequent lines, though not in this specific excerpt) to create a powerful, hypnotic effect that is central to the poem's enduring appeal. The careful arrangement of these rhyming sounds contributes significantly to the poem's memorable rhythm and its ability to lodge itself in the reader's mind.

The Verdict: Identifying the Strict Internal Rhyme Scheme

Having analyzed both excerpts, we can now determine which one showcases a strict internal rhyme scheme. In Excerpt A, "Rippling in twelve-winded circles," while there are sonic connections and the language is undoubtedly musical, the presence of a strict internal rhyme scheme is questionable. The sounds may echo subtly, but they don't form a clear, repeated pattern of rhyming words within the line that stands out as a deliberate, systematic device. It's more in the realm of assonance and consonance, adding texture rather than a structured rhyme. On the other hand, Excerpt B, "But the raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only," presents a much clearer case. The rhyming words "raven," "lonely," and "only" create an undeniable internal rhyme. The placement of these rhyming words within the line is not accidental; it’s a deliberate technique used by Poe to enhance the poem's musicality and thematic resonance. The repetition of the "ay" sound in these key words ties the line together and contributes to the poem's overall hypnotic effect. Poe's work is characterized by its rigorous attention to sound and form, and this line exemplifies that characteristic. Therefore, Excerpt B demonstrates a strict internal rhyme scheme much more effectively than Excerpt A. This ability to identify such specific poetic devices is crucial for appreciating the depth and craft of poetry. It allows us to move beyond a superficial reading and engage with the poem on a more profound, analytical level, understanding how the poet uses every element of language to achieve their artistic vision. The choice between these two lines hinges on the definition of 'strict' – demanding a clear, patterned, and intentional use of rhyme within the line, which Poe delivers and Thomas, in this specific instance, does not as overtly.

Conclusion: The Power of Poetic Structure

In conclusion, the careful examination of poetic excerpts reveals the distinct techniques poets employ to craft their work. We've seen how a strict internal rhyme scheme, characterized by clear and patterned rhymes within a line of verse, sets apart Excerpt B from Excerpt A. Edgar Allan Poe’s "The Raven" utilizes this device with masterful precision, weaving sonic threads through his lines to create a powerful, unforgettable experience for the reader. Dylan Thomas, while equally masterful in his use of language, employs sound in Excerpt A in a way that is perhaps more subtle and less strictly defined by rhyme patterns. Understanding these nuances allows us to appreciate the diverse strategies poets use to convey meaning and evoke emotion. The choice of poetic devices, whether it's internal rhyme, end rhyme, alliteration, or metaphor, all contribute to the unique voice and impact of a poem. It's this deliberate construction, this intricate dance of words and sounds, that makes poetry such a rich and rewarding art form. Keep exploring, keep listening, and keep uncovering the hidden layers within the poems you read. For further insights into poetic devices and analysis, you might find the resources at the **Poetry Foundation** extremely helpful. Their extensive library and articles offer a deep dive into the world of poetry.