Billy Collins's poem "The Lanyard" is a deceptively simple yet emotionally resonant piece. Understanding its structure, especially the rhyme scheme, is key to appreciating its impact. The answer isn't straightforward, and that's part of the poem's charm.
The Apparent Lack of a Traditional Rhyme Scheme:
Unlike many poems that follow strict rhyme schemes (like AABB, ABAB, etc.), "The Lanyard" doesn't adhere to a consistent, predictable pattern. There are instances of near rhymes (also called slant rhymes or half rhymes) and internal rhymes, but no consistent end rhyme throughout the poem.
Near Rhymes and Internal Rhymes:
The poem employs near rhymes effectively, creating a sense of subtle connection and subtle tension between seemingly disparate ideas. For instance, "hands" and "strand" in the first stanza are near rhymes, creating a subtle echo of the act of making the lanyard. This technique contributes to the poem's overall feel of casualness and intimacy, reflecting the everyday nature of the gift and the complex emotions it evokes.
Internal rhymes, where rhyming words appear within the same line, also appear sporadically throughout the poem. These further contribute to the poem's musicality and create internal connections between words and ideas.
The Importance of the Absence of a Strict Rhyme Scheme:
The lack of a traditional, predictable rhyme scheme is a deliberate stylistic choice by Collins. This mirrors the poem's thematic concerns: the unexpected nature of love, the unspoken depths of family relationships, and the complexities of human connection. The poem's seemingly loose structure reflects the fluidity and unpredictability of these emotions.
The "Rhyme Scheme" as a Reflection of the Theme:
We can argue that the "rhyme scheme" of "The Lanyard" is its lack of a rigid scheme itself. This absence is a significant aspect of its poetic effect, reflecting the less-than-perfect, yet ultimately profound nature of the love and connection the speaker describes. The irregular rhymes are a mirror to the irregular, unpredictable, and often unarticulated expressions of love in familial relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Rhyme Scheme of "The Lanyard"
Here are some common questions related to the poem's rhyme scheme, addressed in detail:
What kind of rhyme is used in Billy Collins' "The Lanyard"?
As discussed, "The Lanyard" primarily utilizes near rhymes and internal rhymes rather than perfect end rhymes. This creates a sense of casualness and intimacy, mirroring the themes of the poem.
Does "The Lanyard" have a specific rhyme scheme like AABB or ABAB?
No, it doesn't conform to a traditional, predictable rhyme scheme like AABB or ABAB. Its lack of a consistent pattern adds to its unique artistic effect.
How does the absence of a strict rhyme scheme affect the poem's meaning?
The absence of a strict rhyme scheme mirrors the poem's theme of the complexities and often unspoken nature of familial love. It reflects the unpredictable and fluid emotional landscape the speaker describes.
Are there any examples of near rhymes in "The Lanyard"?
Yes, examples include "hands" and "strand," and other instances of words with similar sounds but not perfect rhymes contribute to the poem's texture and subtle connections.
Why did Billy Collins choose not to use a traditional rhyme scheme?
Collins's choice likely stemmed from a desire to reflect the natural, unforced, and often imperfect nature of human relationships, particularly within the family. The loose structure of the poem mirrors the looseness and complexity of emotions surrounding family bonds.
In conclusion, while "The Lanyard" doesn't have a conventional rhyme scheme, its use of near rhymes and internal rhymes, along with the significant absence of a strict pattern, contribute to its overall effect and thematic resonance. The poem's structure is as important as its content in conveying its message.
