Poetry and song lyrics often rely on musicality, and a core element of that musicality is rhyme. One of the most fundamental and instantly recognizable types of rhyme is exact rhyme. This article will explore what exact rhyme is, how it functions, and how it’s used to create powerful effects in writing.
What is Exact Rhyme?
Exact rhyme, also known as perfect rhyme or full rhyme, occurs when two or more words share the same vowel sound and all subsequent consonant sounds. This creates a strong, clear, and often satisfying auditory connection. It’s the type of rhyme most people initially think of when they consider rhyming words.
A Simple Definition
Exact rhyme is when the sounds completely match from the stressed vowel onward. Think of it as a sonic echo.
Basic Examples of Exact Rhyme
Notice how not only do the vowel sounds match, but the consonants that follow also align perfectly. These simple pairings are the building blocks of many poems and songs.
Delving Deeper into Exact Rhyme
While the basic concept is straightforward, understanding the nuances of exact rhyme can greatly enhance your appreciation—and use—of this literary device.
The Importance of Stressed Syllables
Rhyme generally occurs on stressed syllables. The sounds must match from the stressed vowel onward. Consider these examples:
- Light / Night – The stressed syllable “ight” matches in both words.
- Begin / Again – “gin” and “gain” are not exact matches; the initial consonants differ.
If the stress falls on different parts of the words, the rhyme may feel weak or inaccurate. The ear expects the matching sounds to be prominent.
One‑Syllable vs. Multi‑Syllable Rhyme
Exact rhyme works the same for single‑ and multi‑syllable words, but longer words offer more possibilities. For example:
- One‑Syllable: light / night
- Two‑Syllable: summer / bummer
- Three‑Syllable: remember / ember (the final stressed syllable “ember” matches)
Longer words require careful attention to ensure the stressed syllables and subsequent sounds align perfectly.
How Exact Rhyme Creates Effect
Exact rhyme isn’t just about making words sound good; it also contributes to the overall effect of a poem or song.
- Emphasis: Rhyming words naturally draw attention to themselves, emphasizing particular ideas or emotions.
- Musicality: It creates a pleasing rhythm that makes the text more memorable and enjoyable.
- Structure: Rhyme schemes (like AABB, ABAB, etc.) provide a structural framework for poems and songs.
- Closure: Rhyming at the end of lines or stanzas can create a sense of completion and resolution.
Extensive Examples of Exact Rhyme in Action
Let’s look at some examples from literature and song to see how exact rhyme is used in practice.
Example 1: Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven”
Poe was a master of rhyme and rhythm. Consider these lines:
Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary,
Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore—
The perfect rhyme between “dreary” and “weary” creates a haunting and memorable effect that is characteristic of Poe’s style.
Example 2: Song Lyrics – “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
Cohen’s lyrics frequently use exact rhyme, often in a subtle and sophisticated way.
I’ve heard there was a secret chord
That David played, and it pleased the Lord
The perfect rhyme between “chord” and “Lord” helps to establish the musicality of the song and adds to its emotional resonance.
Example 3: William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18
Shakespeare’s sonnets are full of skillfully employed rhyme. The opening quatrain shows exact rhyme in the pairs “day”/“May” and “temperate”/“date”:
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate:
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May?
And summer’s lease hath all too short a date.
These pairs illustrate how Shakespeare used rhyme to create balance and beauty in his poetry.
Beyond the Basics: Considerations for Writers
While exact rhyme is a powerful tool, it’s important to use it thoughtfully. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Avoid Forced Rhyme: Don’t sacrifice meaning or natural language just to achieve a rhyme. The rhyme should enhance the poem, not detract from it.
- Variety is Key: Overuse of exact rhyme can become predictable and monotonous. Consider using other types of rhyme (like slant rhyme or assonance) to add variety and interest.
- Read Aloud: Always read your work aloud to check how the rhyme sounds. What looks good on paper may not always sound good when spoken.
Exact rhyme is a foundational element of poetry and song. By understanding its principles and practicing its application, you can unlock a powerful tool for creating engaging, memorable, and beautiful writing.