Octave
An eight-line unit in poetry, most significantly the opening section of a Petrarchan sonnet. The octave typically presents a problem, situation, question, or emotional state, creating the foundation for the sestet's response.
Real World
In John Milton's 'When I Consider How My Light is Spent', the octave dwells on his frustration and fear about losing his sight, building emotional tension across all eight lines before the sestet offers spiritual consolation.
Exam Focus
Label the octave explicitly in your answer and explain what argument or emotion it establishes before the volta.
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