Why does punctuation matter in poetry?

Punctuation helps to establish rhythm in poetry. Its absence is often more important than its presence. A poet can use it to create a smooth flow of words or a jarring effect (e.g. using enjambment). This can show the reader the meaning behind the words. For example if the poet is conveying mystery or a drawing out tension they may not punctuate the end of a line or stanza. If they want to show the finality of something they would use a full stop, this would have a greater impact in an unsuspected place such as in the middle of the sentence. I would then use some poetic examples recommenced by the syllabus and ask them to find and explain an example of this.

GS
Answered by Georgia S. English Literature tutor

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