Poetry elements are the building blocks of poems. They include the sounds, patterns, and ideas that make poems different from other types of writing. Learning these elements helps readers and writers understand poetry better.
Every poem does not use all elements, but most poems use some combination of them.
Rhyme is when words have the same ending sound. Rhythm is the beat or pattern of stressed and unstressed words in a poem. Together, they give poetry its musical quality.
Clapping or tapping while reading can help you feel the rhythm of a poem.
Imagery uses descriptive words that appeal to our five senses. Figurative language uses comparisons, like similes and metaphors, to create strong pictures in the reader’s mind.
Good imagery makes the reader feel like they can see, hear, or even taste the poem.
Repetition is when words or phrases are used more than once for emphasis. Alliteration is when words close together begin with the same sound, making the poem flow smoothly.
Repetition adds power, while alliteration makes poems fun to read aloud.
Theme is the main idea or message of the poem. Mood is the feeling the poem gives the reader, such as happiness, sadness, or excitement.
Ask yourself: “What is the poem about?” for theme, and “How does it make me feel?” for mood.