Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" is a poem by the English Renaissance playwright and poet Ben Jonson. Jonson was born in 1572 and is known for his works that explored themes of satire, morality, and classical literature.

Context:

"A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" was likely written in the early 17th century, during the Jacobean era in England. The era was marked by the continuation of the cultural and artistic developments of the Elizabethan era, as well as political and religious conflicts.

Content:

"A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" is a poem that expresses Jonson's disdain for the use of excessive rhyme in poetry. Jonson argues that rhyme should be used sparingly and judiciously, and that poets should prioritize the meaning and substance of their work over the mere sound of the words.

Form:

"A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" is written in rhyming couplets and features a series of arguments against the use of excessive rhyme in poetry. The form of the poem is consistent with the conventions of satirical poetry, which often used humor and irony to critique societal conventions.

Poetic Elements:

Jonson uses a range of poetic devices in "A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" to convey his argument against the use of excessive rhyme in poetry. For example, he uses metaphor and imagery to describe the negative impact of excessive rhyme on the meaning and substance of the work. He also uses repetition and rhetorical questions to create a sense of momentum and to emphasize his argument.

Summary:

"A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" is a satirical and critical poem that reflects Jonson's views on the use of rhyme in poetry. Jonson's use of poetic devices and the form of the poem create a sense of humor and irony, and his exploration of the value of poetry and its conventions continues to resonate with contemporary readers. Although the poem may be limited in its thematic scope, it is a notable example of satirical poetry and offers insight into the cultural and artistic developments of the Jacobean era. Overall, "A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" is a valuable contribution to the canon of English literature.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...