Poetry, at its heart, is about change. Shifts in thought, feeling, or perspective are fundamental to how poems create meaning and impact readers. One of the most powerful tools poets use to achieve these shifts is the volta. Understanding the volta unlocks a deeper appreciation for poetic structure and the artful ways poets guide us through their work.
What is a Volta?
The word “volta” comes from Italian, meaning “turn” or “change”. In poetry, a volta represents a significant shift in thought, emotion, or argument within a poem. It’s not just any change, but a noticeable turning point that alters the poem’s direction. Think of it like a plot twist in a story; it surprises you and makes you reconsider what came before.
Simple Definition & Examples
In its most basic form, the volta signals a change in focus. Here are a couple of short examples:
- “I used to love the rain, the grey skies, the quiet mood. But now, it just reminds me of lonely days and lost opportunities.” The volta is “But now,” marking a shift from fondness to sadness.
- “She smiled, a picture of grace and composure. However, beneath the surface, a storm of grief raged within.” The volta is signaled by “However,” introducing a contrasting inner state.
These are simple cases, but the principle remains the same: the volta announces a change.
Where Does the Volta Occur?
Traditionally, the volta is most associated with the sonnet form, specifically the Italian or Petrarchan sonnet. In this form, the volta typically appears after the octave (the first eight lines) and before the sestet (the last six lines). The octave usually presents a problem, question, or observation, and the volta signals a turn towards a solution, answer, or a new perspective. However, the volta isn’t limited to sonnets. It can appear in almost any poem, at any point, so long as it represents a significant shift.
Types of Voltas & How to Identify Them
Voltas are not one size fits all. They can manifest in several ways:
1. Argumentative Volta
This type of volta involves a change in the line of reasoning. The poet initially presents one argument, then shifts to a contrasting or qualifying perspective.
Example:
“I believed in dreams, in castles in the air,
In chasing shadows, thinking they were real.
Yet, practicality demanded I prepare,
And ground my hopes, suppressing how I feel.
But what is life without a little grace?
Perhaps the balance lies in finding space
Between ambition and a hopeful zeal.”
Here, the volta comes with “But what is life…” shifting from a pragmatic approach to acknowledging the importance of dreams.
2. Emotional Volta
An emotional volta marks a change in the poem’s emotional tone. The poem might move from joy to sorrow, hope to despair, or anger to acceptance.
Example:
“The sun shone bright, and birds sang in the trees,
A perfect day, a moment to embrace.
Then, a letter came, carried on the breeze,
And shadows fell upon that joyful space.
A wave of grief washed over my heart,
The world turned gray, and all the colors part,
Lost in a sea of sorrow and despair.”
The volta is signaled by “Then, a letter came…” which immediately shifts the poem’s mood from joy to sadness.
3. Perspective Volta
This volta involves a change in the speaker’s viewpoint or understanding. The speaker might initially see the world one way, then gain a new insight that alters their perception.
Example:
“I saw the old man as a burden, weak and slow,
A relic of the past, a fading light.
But then I learned his stories, long ago,
And saw the strength within his gentle sight.
He wasn’t a burden, but a treasure to hold,
A well of wisdom, worth more than gold,
A reminder that every life has its own tale.”
The volta occurs with “But then I learned…” signifying a shift in the speaker’s perception of the old man.
More Complex Examples & Analysis
Let’s look at a longer example to illustrate how a volta can function within a more complex poem:
“The city sleeps, a concrete dream,
Beneath a blanket of electric haze.
I walk alone, a silent stream,
Lost in the labyrinth of passing days.
I search for meaning, for a guiding star,
A reason to believe, a path to blaze.
But all I find is emptiness and pain,
A hollow echo in the pouring rain.
Yet, in the darkness, a flicker of hope,
A memory of love, a gentle grace.
Perhaps meaning isn’t found, but made,
A tapestry woven with time and space.
And even in the darkness, we can shine,
A beacon of light, a hopeful embrace,
For even broken things can find their place.”
In this poem, the volta arrives at “Yet, in the darkness…”. The first eight lines establish a mood of loneliness and disillusionment. The volta introduces a shift toward acceptance and the possibility of finding meaning even in difficult circumstances. The poem then explores this new perspective, culminating in the idea that even “broken things” can have value.
Why is the Volta Important?
The volta is more than just a poetic device. It is a fundamental element of storytelling and emotional resonance. By creating a shift in thought or feeling, the volta does several things:
- Creates Dramatic Tension: It surprises the reader and keeps them engaged.
- Adds Depth and Complexity: It reveals new layers of meaning and nuance.
- Enhances Emotional Impact: It heightens the reader’s emotional response.
- Reflects Real Life Experience: Life is full of unexpected turns; the volta mirrors this reality.
By recognizing and understanding the volta, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry of poetry and the power of language to shape our understanding of the world.
Ultimately, the volta is a testament to the dynamic nature of thought and emotion. It reminds us that change is inevitable, and that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of a new beginning.