High School

What effect do the short lines in Hughes's poem have on its rhythm, as compared to the long lines in Whitman's poem?

Answer :

Final answer:

The short lines in Hughes's poem introduce quicker, more urgent rhythms compared to the reflective, languid rhythm observed in Whiteman's long lines.

The line length in both poets' works not only influences the rhythm but also aligns with the content loaded within the lines, therefore affecting readers' interpretation and response.

Explanation:

The short lines in Hughes's poem as compared to the long lines in Whiteman's poem, greatly affect their respective rhythms. The shorter lines in Hughes's work introduce quicker pacing, staccato-like rhythm, and a sense of urgency or intensity, which is reflective of the poem's content.

On the other hand, Whiteman's long lines contribute to a more languid pacing and rhythm, which often induces contemplative or expansive thoughts linked with the content loaded in these longer lines.

For example, consider a short line from Hughes, such as 'Life is fine! Fine as wine!'. The brevity of the lines dictates a rapidly changing rhythm, echoing the upbeat and exuberant content of the lines. In contrast, a longer line from Whiteman might be 'It avails not, time nor place—distance avails not.'.

The slower rhythm induced by such a long line could evoke a reflective, deep-thinking response from readers, aligning with the thoughtful and profound content loaded in this line.

Learn more about Poem Rhythm and Length here:

https://brainly.com/question/8307075

#SPJ11