Question

What is a poem’s meter?

Answer 1

A poem's meter refers to the structured rhythm of a poem, determined by the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables in its lines. It serves as the rhythmic framework that can enhance the musicality and emotional impact of the poem. Meter is often described in terms of a specific pattern or measurement of syllables, typically counted in "feet." Each foot contains a certain number of syllables, with a specific arrangement of stresses. Common types of meter include:

1. **Iambic** (unstressed/stressed) – e.g., "be-FORE"
2. **Trochaic** (stressed/unstressed) – e.g., "TA-ble"
3. **Anapestic** (unstressed/unstressed/stressed) – e.g., "in-ter-VENE"
4. **Dactylic** (stressed/unstressed/unstressed) – e.g., "EL-e-phant"
5. **Spondee** (stressed/stressed) – e.g., "DEAD END"

Meter is often indicated by terms describing the number of feet in a line, such as:

- **Monometer** (1 foot)
- **Dimeter** (2 feet)
- **Trimeter** (3 feet)
- **Tetrameter** (4 feet)
- **Pentameter** (5 feet)
- **Hexameter** (6 feet)

One of the most famously used meters in English poetry is iambic pentameter, which consists of five iambic feet per line. Overall, meter contributes to the poem's overall flow and can evoke specific emotions or atmospheres.