Unseen Poetry: Less obvious techniques

Diction

The specific words a poet chooses to use.

Syntax

The order or arrangement of words in a sentence.

Caesura

A sudden pause or punctuation mark mid-line.

Enjambment

A sentence spilling over line breaks without punctuation.

End-stopped line

A line ending with a hard punctuation mark.

Poetic effect of diction

Establishes the exact mood, tone, or emotional atmosphere.

Poetic effect of syntax

Controls sentence pacing or forces emphasis onto specific words.

Poetic effect of alliteration

Creates harsh aggressive tones or soft soothing sound landscapes.

Poetic effect of caesura

Fractures rhythm, making speakers sound breathless, panicky, or hesitant.

Poetic effect of enjambment

Mimics rushing excitement, overflowing emotion, or loss of control.

Poetic effect of end-stopped lines

Signals absolute control, structural finality, or strict emotional restraint.