ABSTRACT

First published in 1970, this work outlines the principles of English prosody in a way that will enable the reader to recognise and scan any piece of English verse. It illustrates the close relationship between English speech patterns and verse patterns, and the primary importance of the phenomenon of stress. It also discusses the suitability of various kinds of metrical pattern for various kinds of poetic effect.

This book will be of interest to those studying poetry and English literature.

chapter 1|12 pages

Some Definitions and Distinctions

chapter 2|13 pages

Pure Stress Metres

chapter 3|16 pages

Stress – Syllable Metres

chapter 5|11 pages

Rhyme

chapter 6|8 pages

Free Verse

chapter |3 pages

Two Additional Notes