Rhythm is the heartbeat of poetry, and understanding how that beat is created unlocks a deeper appreciation for the art form. One key element in crafting rhythm is the anapest, a fascinating and powerful poetic foot. This guide will explore everything you need to know about anapests, from the basic definition to more complex applications and examples.
What is an Anapest?
An anapest is a metrical foot in poetry consisting of two unstressed syllables followed by a stressed syllable. Think of it as a gentle build‑up followed by a strong emphasis. It is often described as having a galloping rhythm, like a horse’s hooves hitting the ground softly, then powerfully.
Here’s how it looks when we mark the syllables:
uu / (where ‘u’ represents an unstressed syllable and ‘/’ represents a stressed syllable)
Simple Anapest Examples
Let’s start with some quick examples to illustrate the sound. Try reading these aloud, emphasizing the last syllable of each:
- in the deep
- under stand
- reptition
- about to go
Notice how the two unstressed syllables create a lighter, quicker feel before the final, emphasized syllable.
Anapestic Meter: Putting Anapests Together
A single anapest is just one foot. Anapestic meter describes a line or poem built largely from anapestic feet. While a perfectly consistent anapestic meter is rare – poets often introduce variations for emphasis or to avoid monotony – the dominant rhythm will still be anapestic. A common anapestic meter is three anapests per line.
Example of a Line in Anapestic Meter
Let’s look at a line and mark the anapests:
u u / u u / u u /
With a leap and a bound the jolly huntsman came
Notice how the rhythm naturally falls into groups of three, each following the uu/ pattern. This creates a swift, energetic feel.
Recognizing Anapests in Poetry
Identifying anapests can take practice. The key is to scan the poem – that is, to read it aloud and mark the stressed and unstressed syllables. Here’s an extended example from Lord Byron’s “The Destruction of Sennacherib”:
The As syri an came down like the wolf on the fold
And the wind o’er the plains did blow
As you can see, many of the feet are anapestic, contributing to the poem’s dramatic, galloping pace. Note that not every foot is a perfect anapest, highlighting the flexibility poets employ.
The Effect of Anapestic Meter
Anapestic meter has a distinct effect on the reader. Its quick, rising rhythm makes it well suited for:
- Narrative poetry: The pace lends itself to storytelling.
- Humorous verse: The light, bouncy rhythm can create a playful mood.
- Dramatic or epic poems: The momentum can build excitement and intensity.
More Examples Illustrating the Effect
Consider this line, deliberately written in anapestic meter:
u u / u u / u u /
And the horse and the rider went charging away
The rhythm immediately evokes a sense of movement and energy. Compare that to a line in a different meter, say iambic (unstressed, stressed):
u / u / u /
The sun sets slowly o’er the hill
The iambic line feels more deliberate, measured, and somber.
Variations and Common Substitutions
Perfect anapestic meter is rare. Poets frequently use substitutions to add variety or emphasize certain words. The most common substitution is replacing an anapest (uu/) with an iamb (u/).
Example of Substitution
Let’s look at a line from Clement Clarke Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (“’Twas the Night Before Christmas”):
’Twas the night / before Christmas and all through the house
While largely anapestic, notice how “’Twas the night” is an iambic foot. This slight variation doesn’t disrupt the overall anapestic rhythm but adds a subtle emphasis to those words.
How to Write in Anapestic Meter
Writing in anapestic meter can be challenging, but here are some tips:
- Focus on the rhythm: Say your lines aloud as you write, paying attention to the uu/ pattern.
- Start with short phrases: Build up your lines from small anapestic units.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Use substitutions strategically to maintain the rhythm while adding emphasis.
- Read anapestic poetry: Familiarize yourself with how other poets have used this meter.
Here’s a simple attempt at a line in anapestic meter:
u u / u u / u u /
In the winter the snowflakes are falling so free
It’s not perfect, but it demonstrates the basic principle.
Beyond the Basics: Anapests in Different Contexts
Anapests aren’t limited to entire poems. They can be used within lines or stanzas to create specific effects. A poet might introduce an anapest to speed up the rhythm at a crucial moment or to emphasize a particular word or phrase. Consider how a single anapestic foot can inject a burst of energy into a predominantly iambic line.
The versatility of the anapest makes it a valuable tool for any poet seeking to control the rhythm and musicality of their work.
In conclusion, the anapest is a powerful metrical foot that can add energy, momentum, and musicality to poetry. By understanding its structure, effects, and variations, you can unlock a deeper appreciation for the art of verse – and perhaps even try your hand at writing some anapestic poetry yourself.