What is the main style difference between “Roses” and “Night”?
“Roses” uses iambic pentameter.
“Roses” uses a more modern form.
“Night” uses a rhyme scheme.
“Night” uses trochaic pentameter.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: “Roses” uses iambic pentameter.
Explanation:
To understand the style difference between “Roses” and “Night,” we need to consider their metrical patterns and structural elements. Meter refers to the rhythmic structure of a poem, which is determined by the number and pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables.
- Iambic Pentameter in “Roses”:
- Iambic pentameter is a specific type of metrical pattern in which each line consists of five “iambs,” which are pairs of syllables where the first syllable is unstressed and the second is stressed (da-DUM).
- “Roses” follows this pattern, meaning that the lines have a flowing, rhythmic quality, making it sound natural and often used in traditional English poetry, including works by Shakespeare.
- Example of iambic pentameter:
- “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” (Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18)
- “Night” Using Trochaic Pentameter:
- Trochaic pentameter consists of five “trochees,” which are pairs of syllables where the first is stressed and the second is unstressed (DA-dum).
- This gives the poem a more forceful and rhythmic sound compared to the softer flow of iambic meter. The trochaic rhythm creates a more dramatic or emphatic effect.
- Example of trochaic meter:
- “By the shore of Gitche Gumee” (from Hiawatha by Longfellow).
- The Other Choices:
- “Roses” uses a more modern form: This could apply if the poem in question used free verse or a less traditional structure. However, the mention of iambic pentameter suggests a more traditional, structured style.
- “Night” uses a rhyme scheme: While rhyme schemes are important for identifying the structure of a poem, they don’t directly address the meter or rhythmic pattern, which is the focus here.
In summary, the key distinction between the two poems lies in their metrical forms. “Roses” follows the traditional iambic pentameter, while “Night” uses trochaic pentameter, creating a marked contrast in rhythm and flow.