A repeating line in a poem is called a refrain.
A refrain is a fundamental poetic device characterized by a word, line, or phrase that is repeated within the lines or stanzas of the poem itself. This deliberate repetition is a powerful tool used by poets to create various effects, from establishing rhythm to emphasizing key themes.
The Purpose and Impact of Refrains
The strategic inclusion of a refrain can significantly influence a poem's overall structure, sound, and meaning. It acts as an anchor, drawing the reader's attention back to a particular idea, emotion, or image.
Key Functions of a Refrain:
- Emphasis and Reinforcement: By repeating a specific line or phrase, poets can underscore a central message, a crucial emotion, or a significant image, ensuring it stands out and resonates with the audience.
- Rhythm and Musicality: Refrains contribute to the poem's auditory appeal, creating a consistent beat, a song-like quality, or a memorable cadence that enhances its readability and aural impact.
- Mood and Atmosphere: The repeated line can consistently establish or reinforce a specific emotional tone, whether it's one of melancholy, joy, urgency, or contemplation.
- Structural Cohesion: Refrains often mark the end of stanzas or sections, providing a clear organizational framework and helping to unify different parts of the poem.
- Anticipation and Familiarity: Readers may come to expect the return of the refrain, which can build a sense of anticipation or provide a comforting sense of familiarity as they progress through the poem.
- Thematic Development: A refrain can function as a recurring motif, subtly or overtly tying into and developing the poem's overarching themes or narrative.
Common Placements of Refrains
Refrains can appear at various points within a poem, each placement serving a distinct artistic purpose and affecting the reader differently.
| Placement | Description | Typical Effect |
|---|---|---|
| End of Stanza | The most common placement; the line or phrase recurs at the close of stanzas. | Provides closure, reinforces main idea, creates a lyrical quality. |
| Beginning of Stanza | The repeating element starts each new stanza. | Sets the tone for each section or introduces a recurring concept. |
| Within a Stanza | The repetition occurs somewhere in the middle of a stanza. | Creates internal rhythm, highlights specific words or phrases. |
| Throughout the Poem | The refrain appears less regularly but acts as a pervasive, recurring element. | Builds a subtle theme or mood, often more suggestive than explicit. |
Examples in Literature
Refrains are a staple across various poetic forms and literary traditions. Ballads, for instance, frequently use refrains to enhance storytelling and memorability, often leading to a song-like structure. In more modern poetry, refrains might be employed to create a sense of obsession, a fragmented narrative, or to reflect a recurring thought or image in the speaker's mind. The effective use of a refrain is a testament to the poet's skill in manipulating language for profound artistic and emotional impact.
