Have you ever noticed poetry that sounds like everyday speech, yet still feels elevated? It likely utilizes a technique called blank verse. It is a cornerstone of much classic English poetry and drama, and understanding it unlocks a deeper appreciation for the art form. This guide will explore blank verse, from its definition and characteristics to practical examples and its enduring impact on literature.
What is Blank Verse?
At its core, blank verse is poetry written in unrhymed iambic pentameter. Iambic means each line consists of iambs—pairs of syllables with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one. Think of the sound “de-LIGHT, to-DAY.” Pentameter means there are five of these iambic pairs per line, so each line has ten syllables that alternate between unstressed and stressed. The word “blank” simply indicates that the lines do not rhyme.
Here is a simple example to illustrate the pattern:
My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun;
Coral is far more red than her lips’ red.
Notice the ten‑syllable count and the consistent da‑DUM rhythm in each line. While the example comes from a sonnet that does rhyme, the individual lines demonstrate iambic pentameter, which is the foundation of blank verse.
Why Use Blank Verse?
So why choose unrhymed iambic pentameter? Several reasons. It allows poets and playwrights to achieve a natural, conversational flow while still maintaining a sense of formality and poetic rhythm. The lack of rhyme avoids the artificiality that rhyming verse can sometimes create. It also provides a subtle musicality that enhances the emotional impact of the words.
The Sound of Natural Speech
Blank verse closely mimics the rhythm of natural English speech. Iambic pentameter reflects the way we often emphasize syllables when we speak, producing a gentle rise and fall that can be both soothing and engaging.
Formality and Elevation
Despite its conversational quality, the adherence to a strict metrical pattern lends a degree of formality to blank verse. This elevates the language and gives it a sense of importance, making it an ideal technique for serious or dramatic subjects.
A Deeper Dive into Iambic Pentameter
Recognizing iambic pentameter in practice takes some training. The rhythm is not always perfect, and poets often introduce variations to create emphasis or avoid monotony. These variations are called metrical substitutions.
Consider this excerpt:
But, soft! What light through yonder window breaks?
It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.
While largely iambic, you might notice slight deviations. The first line starts with an unstressed syllable (“But”), a common variation called an pyrrhic foot. These small changes add nuance and prevent the rhythm from becoming too predictable.
Examples of Blank Verse in Literature
Blank verse is pervasive in English literature, particularly in the works of William Shakespeare, John Milton, and many Victorian poets. Let’s examine some key examples.
Shakespeare’s Plays
Shakespeare famously used blank verse extensively in his plays. Consider this excerpt from Hamlet’s “To be, or not to be” soliloquy:
To be, or not to be, that is the question:
Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
Notice how the rhythm supports the weight and thoughtfulness of Hamlet’s words. The lack of rhyme doesn’t detract from the poem’s beauty; it enhances its dramatic impact. The variations in rhythm highlight key words like “suffer” and “troubles.”
Milton’s Paradise Lost
John Milton’s epic poem Paradise Lost is a masterpiece of blank verse. He used it to tell the biblical story of the Fall of Man with grandeur and complexity. A representative passage reads:
Of Man’s first disobedience, and the fruit of the forbidden tree,
Whose mortal taste brought death into the world, and all our woe,
Sing, Heavenly muse, that on the secret top.
Milton’s use of blank verse gives the poem a sense of solemnity and epic scale. The sustained rhythm creates a powerful and immersive reading experience.
Victorian Poetry
Many Victorian poets, such as Matthew Arnold and Alfred Tennyson, also embraced blank verse. Tennyson used it to craft long narrative poems with emotional depth. A fragment from his work appears below:
The old year wails as dies the slowly by,
And winds lament as through the woodlands sweep
The waning light, as daylight slips away
And shadows stretch as darkness takes its hold
Writing in Blank Verse: A Few Tips
Interested in trying your hand at writing in blank verse? Here are a few tips:
- Focus on the Rhythm: Practice identifying and creating iambic feet. Read examples of blank verse aloud to internalize the rhythm.
- Count Syllables: Make sure each line has ten syllables. This is crucial for maintaining the correct meter.
- Embrace Variations: Don’t be afraid to deviate from the strict iambic pentameter occasionally. Subtle variations can add interest and emphasis.
- Read Aloud: The best way to assess the effectiveness of your blank verse is to read it aloud. Listen for the rhythm and flow of the language.
The Enduring Legacy of Blank Verse
Blank verse remains a vital form of poetic expression. Its ability to combine formality with naturalness makes it ideal for a wide range of subjects. From dramatic monologues to epic poems, blank verse continues to captivate readers and inspire writers. By understanding its principles and appreciating its nuances, you can unlock a deeper understanding of English literature and the power of poetic form.