Metre
The systematic pattern of stressed (/) and unstressed (∪) syllables that creates the rhythmic foundation of a poem. Metre is measured in feet (repeated units of 2-3 syllables) and line length, creating predictable or varied rhythmic effects.
Real World
Christina Rossetti's 'Goblin Market' shifts between trochaic and iambic metre throughout — the unstable, lurching rhythm mirrors the goblins' seductive chaos, contrasting sharply with the steady metre of the sisters' domestic scenes.
Exam Focus
Use scansion marks (/ and u) when analysing metre in your response — it demonstrates precise technical understanding to examiners.
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