I concentrate toward them that are nigh, I wait on the door-slab. / Who has done his day's work? who will soonest be through with his supper? / Who wishes to walk with me? -- Walt Whitman, Song of Myself (1892)

Internal rhymes are an essential aspect of free verse poetry. They appear within a single line or between adjacent lines, creating a sense of harmony and musicality. By incorporating internal rhymes into your free verse poem, you can significantly enhance its rhythm and melody.

Understanding rhyme structure is crucial in identifying internal rhymes. Rhyme structure pertains to the way words sound at the end of a line. In free verse poetry, poets have the freedom to play with rhyme structure, and internal rhymes can occur in various places throughout the poem.

One straightforward technique is using words that rhyme within a single line. A good example of this is Emily Dickinson’s poem “Because I Could Not Stop for Death” where the second line reads, “He kindly stopped for me -.” The use of the internal rhyme between “kindly” and “me” creates a harmonious effect, enhancing the poem’s musicality.

In addition to single-line rhymes, internal rhymes can also occur between adjacent lines. An excellent example of this technique is Walt Whitman’s “When I Heard the Learn’d Astronomer,” where he writes, “How soon unaccountable I became tired and sick,/ Till rising and gliding out, I wander’d off by myself.” The internal rhyme between “sick,” and “gliding” establishes a musical pattern and rhythm, enhancing the poem’s flow.

Overall, internal rhymes are an effective technique for adding a musical quality to free verse poetry. By understanding rhyme structure and playing around with sounds and words, poets can create memorable and impactful poems that engage their readers.

External Rhymes

As I mentioned earlier, external rhymes occur at the end of lines in free verse poetry. At times, poets may choose to create a specific rhyme pattern to give their poem structure. These patterns are known as rhyme schemes.

The most common rhyme scheme in free verse poetry is AABB, where the first two lines rhyme with each other, and the next two lines rhyme with each other. Other popular rhyme schemes include ABAB and ABCB.

However, not all free verse poetry follows a specific rhyme scheme. Some poets may choose to use sporadic external rhymes throughout their poem, while others may opt for no external rhymes at all.

External rhymes can provide a poem with a sense of musicality and rhythm, making it more engaging to the reader. However, overusing external rhymes or forcing a rhyme can have a negative effect on the poem’s flow and readability.

It’s essential to use external rhymes purposefully and thoughtfully, allowing them to complement the poem’s meaning and enhance the overall experience for the reader.

Rhyme Scheme Example
AABB I saw a ship go sailing by,
It sailed into the sky so high.
The clouds it touched, the winds it felt,
And then it slowly down it knelt.
ABAB The sun sets in the west,
As the birds return to their nest.
The stars twinkle in the sky,
As I bid this day goodbye.
ABCB The raindrops fall upon my head,
As I walk along this lonely shed.
I hear the sound of running feet,
And my heart begins to skip a beat.

By understanding external rhymes, their role in free verse poetry, and the different rhyme patterns and schemes available, poets can create powerful and captivating poems that engage the reader on multiple levels.

The Role of Rhyme in Free Verse Poetry

When we think of poetry, rhyme is often one of the first things that come to mind. While free verse poetry may not strictly adhere to traditional rhyme schemes, rhyme can still play an important role in adding depth and emotion to a poem’s meaning. There are several different types of rhyme that poets can use to enhance their work.

End rhyme: This is one of the more common types of rhyme in poetry. It occurs when the last word of two or more lines of poetry rhyme with each other. In free verse poetry, end rhyme can be used sparingly or playfully, helping to create a sense of structure or lending a musicality to the poem.

Internal rhyme: Unlike end rhyme, internal rhyme occurs within a single line of poetry. This type of rhyme can create a sense of harmony and rhythm within the line, adding to the musicality of the poem. Internal rhyme can also be used to tie together ideas or images within a poem, creating a sense of unity.

Along with rhyme types, there are also various poetic devices and techniques that poets can use to enhance their work.

Alliteration: This is a technique that involves using words with the same initial sound within a line of poetry. Alliteration can add emphasis and create a musical quality to the poem.

Assonance: Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds within a line of poetry. This technique can be used to create a sense of unity and harmony within the poem.

Consonance: Consonance is similar to assonance but involves the repetition of consonant sounds instead. This technique can be used to create a sense of tension or resolution within the poem.

When using rhyming techniques in free verse poetry, it’s important for poets to avoid forcing the rhyme. Instead, the rhyme should flow naturally within the context of the poem, enhancing the meaning and creating a unique musicality.

Examples of Internal Rhymes in Free Verse Poetry

Internal rhymes in free verse poetry can create a musicality and rhythm that enhances the overall impact of the poem. Take the following lines from T. S. Eliot’s “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock”:

Let us go then, you and I,
When the evening is spread out against the sky
Like a patient etherized upon a table

In these lines, the internal rhymes of “then” and “when” create a sense of harmony and flow within the poem. Such internal rhymes occur within a single line or between adjacent lines, weaving together the different elements of the poem. We also have the benefit of an external rhyme in “I” and “sky” to (and this is a gross oversimplification) create a sense of interconnection, while also helping with the pacing and memorability of these early lines.

Another example of internal rhyme can be seen in the following lines from Langston Hughes’ “Harlem”:

What happens to a dream deferred?
Does it dry up
Like a raisin in the sun?

The internal rhymes of “dream” and “deferred,” as well as “dry” and “raisin,” add emphasis and depth to the poem’s exploration of the consequences of unfulfilled dreams.

Internal rhymes can range from subtle to pronounced, but they always contribute to the overall musicality and rhythm of the poem. They are an essential tool in the poet’s kit, allowing them to create a unique and mesmerizing experience for their readers.

Examples of External Rhymes in Free Verse Poetry

External rhymes are a staple in free verse poetry, providing structure and form to the poem. There are several different types of rhyme patterns and schemes that poets can experiment with to create a unique and melodic piece.

One example of external rhymes in free verse poetry is the AABB rhyme scheme. In this pattern, the first two lines rhyme with each other, and the second two lines rhyme with each other. For instance:

The light fades fast away

The night creeps in to stay

The sun dips below the hill

The world outside is still

An alternative is the ABAB rhyme scheme, where the first and third lines rhyme, and the second and fourth lines rhyme. Here is an example:

The autumn leaves fall to the ground

The wind whips them around

The trees stand bare and stark

The night descends, cold and dark

Another type of external rhyme used in free verse poetry is the alternate rhyme scheme, where the first and third lines, and the second and fourth lines, rhyme with each other. Here is an example:

The river flows gently by

The birds soar high in the sky

The sun sets in a blaze of red

The day is done and we head to bed

External rhymes in free verse poetry can be subtle or pronounced, depending on the poet’s intent. They can add a sense of rhythm and melody to the poem, while also providing a structure that can guide the reader through the piece.

By experimenting with different rhyme patterns and schemes, poets can find their own unique voice and style in free verse poetry.

The Art of Balancing Internal and External Rhymes

When it comes to free verse poetry, balancing internal and external rhymes can be the key to creating a captivating and melodic poem. Internal rhymes occur within a line of poetry, while external rhymes occur at the end of a line. By using both types of rhymes strategically, poets can craft a unique rhythm and flow in their work.

In order to balance internal and external rhymes effectively, it’s essential to have an understanding of the overall rhyme structure of the poem. This can be achieved by selecting a specific rhyme scheme or pattern, such as ABAB or ABCB. Once the pattern has been established, internal and external rhymes can be added to enhance the musicality of the poem.

Another technique for balancing internal and external rhymes is to use them in alternating lines or stanzas. This can create a sense of contrast and tension, drawing the reader in and creating a memorable experience.

Examples of Poems that Balance Internal and External Rhymes

Robert Frost’s “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” is an excellent example of a poem that balances internal and external rhymes. The poem follows an ABAA rhyme scheme, with internal rhymes occurring in the second and fourth lines of each stanza. The external rhymes occur at the end of the second and fourth lines, creating a sense of structure and form in the free verse poem.

Another example is Langston Hughes’ “Harlem,” which uses both internal and external rhymes to create a compelling rhythm and flow. The poem features an ABCB rhyme scheme, with internal rhymes occurring in the first and third lines of each stanza. The external rhymes occur at the end of the second and fourth lines, providing a sense of structure to the free verse poem.

By using internal and external rhymes to balance each other out, the poets in these examples have created memorable and impactful poems that are both musical and meaningful.

Overall, mastering the art of balancing internal and external rhymes in free verse poetry takes practice and experimentation. However, by using the techniques explored in this article, poets can create unique and captivating poems that showcase the power of rhyme in free verse.

Techniques for Creating Internal Rhymes in Free Verse Poetry

If you’re looking to add a touch of musicality to your free verse poetry, incorporating internal rhymes can be a powerful technique. Internal rhymes occur within a single line or between adjacent lines, and can help to create a sense of harmony and rhythm in your poem.

Here are some tips for creating effective internal rhymes:

  1. Listen to the natural phrasing of your words. Internal rhymes work best when they occur naturally within the flow of your poem. Listen closely to the pattern of stresses in your words, and look for opportunities to create subtle internal rhymes.
  2. Experiment with different rhyme types. Internal rhymes don’t have to follow a strict pattern or scheme. Instead, try playing around with different types of rhymes, such as slant rhymes or near rhymes, to see what sounds best in your poem.
  3. Use repetition to your advantage. Repeating certain words or phrases throughout your poem can create a sense of unity and coherence, especially when those repeated words contain internal rhymes.
  4. Avoid forced rhymes. As with any poetic technique, internal rhymes should never feel forced or contrived. If you’re struggling to find a natural-sounding internal rhyme, try rephrasing the line or using a different word altogether.

By incorporating internal rhymes into your free verse poetry, you can add a unique layer of musicality and rhythm that will make your poems stand out. Experiment, play, and have fun with this powerful poetic technique!

Techniques for Creating External Rhymes in Free Verse Poetry

If you want to give your free verse poetry structure and form, using external rhymes can be an effective technique. Here are some useful techniques for creating external rhymes:

  1. End Rhymes: End rhymes are the most common type of external rhyme in poetry. To create end rhymes, simply rhyme the last word of each line with another line’s last word. This technique helps establish a clear rhythmic pattern and provides cohesion to your poem. However, be sure to use end rhymes sparingly to avoid a sing-songy effect.
  2. Slant Rhymes: Also known as near rhymes or half rhymes, slant rhymes are subtle and can add a touch of complexity to your free verse poetry. To create a slant rhyme, use words that have similar but not identical sounds. For example, “love” and “move” could be a slant rhyme.
  3. Internal Rhymes: As we’ve discussed in previous sections, internal rhymes occur within a single line or between adjacent lines. However, internal rhymes can also be used to create external rhymes in free verse poetry. For example, you could use an internal rhyme in the middle of a line and then repeat it at the end of another line, creating an external rhyme. This technique adds a layer of complexity and musicality to your poem.
  4. Eye Rhymes: Eye rhymes are words that look like they should rhyme but are pronounced differently. These rhymes can add visual interest to your free verse poetry. However, be aware that eye rhymes can be controversial in poetry circles, as they rely more on spelling than sound.
  5. Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of the same sound at the beginning of words in a line or phrase. While not technically a type of rhyme, alliteration can create a similar effect of musicality and rhythm in free verse poetry. It can also provide emphasis on certain words or phrases.

Experiment with these techniques to find what best suits your style and voice. Remember, the key to effective external rhymes in free verse poetry is to use them sparingly and purposefully to add structure and form without sacrificing the freedom and flexibility of the form.

Experimenting with Internal and External Rhymes

Firstly, consider the difference between internal and external rhymes. Internal rhymes occur within a line or between adjacent lines, whereas external rhymes occur at the end of lines. By experimenting with different combinations of internal and external rhymes, you can create a unique flow in your poetry.

Here are some exercises to help you get started:

  • Choose a poem you admire that uses internal or external rhymes. Rewrite a section without the rhyme, and compare the impact on the poem’s rhythm and musicality.
  • Use a free verse poem you’ve written and experiment with adding internal or external rhymes. Don’t force the rhyme; instead, look for natural phrasing and opportunities to create a sense of harmony.
  • Write a free verse poem that includes both internal and external rhymes. Play around with different rhyme structures and schemes, and see how they affect the poem’s tone and meaning.

Remember, the key to successful experimentation is to approach it with an open mind. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. By playing with both internal and external rhymes, you can unlock the full potential of free verse poetry and create something truly unique.

Rhyme can add depth, emotion, and emphasis to a poem’s meaning, and with the use of various poetic devices and techniques, poets can effectively balance both types of rhymes to create a unique flow and rhythm in their work.

By experimenting with internal and external rhymes, poets can explore the possibilities and effects of these techniques in their own writing, gaining a deeper appreciation for the art of free verse.

So, if you’re looking to add a unique musicality and rhythm to your free verse poetry, I encourage you to embrace internal and external rhymes. With practice and experimentation, you may just create a masterpiece that resonates with readers for years to come.

J.W. Carey
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