English 12 Standard 2 Vocab

Theme

the underlying message, central idea, or universal truth that the poem explores

Subject

the main idea, topic, or thing that the poem is about

Form

the structure or organization of a poem, including its style, layout, and format

Mood

the emotional atmosphere or feeling conveyed by a poem, often influenced by word choice and tone

Diction

the choice of words and style of expression used by a poet, which impacts the poem's voice and meaning.

Tone

the author's attitude toward the subject, which is conveyed through word choice and style.

Sarcasm

the use of irony to mock or convey contempt, often characterized by saying the opposite of what is meant.

Irony

a rhetorical device or situation where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning, often highlighting contradictions.

Anaphora

the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences, used for emphasis or rhetorical effect.

Alliteration

the repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely placed words, often used in poetry and prose.

Apostrophe

a figure of speech in which a speaker addresses an absent person or personified idea, often used to express emotions or thoughts.

Assonance

the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words, typically used to create rhythm or enhance the musical quality of language.

Blank verse

poetry written in unrhymed iambic pentameter, commonly used in English dramatic and epic poetry.

Consonance

the repetition of consonant sounds in nearby words, often occurring at the end or middle of words, used to create harmony or rhythm in poetry.

Free verse

poetry that does not adhere to a specific meter or rhyme scheme, allowing for greater flexibility and expression in language.

Meter

the rhythmic pattern created by the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line, often organized into units called "feet"

Rhythm

the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line or verse, creating a musical flow and beat

Speaker

he voice that narrates or delivers the poem, distinct from the actual poet, and can be seen as a character or persona created by the author

Stanza

group of lines within a poem, typically separated by a blank line or indentation, functioning like a paragraph in prose, and often characterized by a specific rhyme scheme or meter