Abstract
Poetry is a compressed form of expression and seeks a response which is simultaneously emotional and intellectual. It thus tries to reach its audience by as many means, or through as many channels, as possible. The poet uses many poetic devices (rhyme, rhythm, alliteration, imagery and so on) to convey his general theme, or particular aspects of that theme, as efficiently and emphatically as possible. The patterns a poem makes – its music and its metaphors – all serve the imperatives of its theme.
Access this chapter
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
Preview
Unable to display preview. Download preview PDF.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Copyright information
© 1986 John Garrett
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Garrett, J. (1986). Approaching Poetry. In: British Poetry Since the Sixteenth Century. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-27937-1_2
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-27937-1_2
Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, London
Print ISBN: 978-0-333-41371-5
Online ISBN: 978-1-349-27937-1
eBook Packages: Palgrave Literature & Performing Arts CollectionLiterature, Cultural and Media Studies (R0)