ABSTRACT
This chapter examines one particular modal aspect of poetry: rhythm and explores the element of rhythm—the arrangement of beats in time via a number of examples. It argues that rhythmic shape is fundamental to poetry and also plays a part in novels and plays and also explores forms and function of rhythm. The phrases also signify a close association between rhythm and physicality: not only is the content about physicality in the three-line extract but also the ideas is embodied in the rhythm. The multi-layered nature of multimetric rhythm depends on a number of isometric or looser rhythms playing across each other at the same time. In Indian music, rhythm is foregrounded: it could be said that the movement of sound in time is foregrounded, rather than providing a foundation for the elaboration of melody, cadence and other features of pitch and harmony. Dance music and poetry have a tendency to build relationships in systematic ways.
