[Rhyme is] but the invention of a barbarous age, to set…
![“[Rhyme is] but the invention of a barbarous age, to set off wretched matter and lame Meter; ... Not without cause therefore some both Italian and Spanish poets of prime note have rejected rhyme, ... as have also long since our best English tragedies, as... trivial and of no true musical delight…” quote by John Milton](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/bcd/john-milton-191_age_rhyme-is-but-the-invention-of-a-barbarou_3127072.png)
“[Rhyme is] but the invention of a barbarous age, to set off wretched matter and lame Meter; ... Not without cause therefore some both Italian and Spanish poets of prime note have rejected rhyme, ... as have also long since our best English tragedies, as... trivial and of no true musical delight; which [truly] consists only in apt numbers, fit quantity of syllables, and the sense variously drawn out from one verse into another, not in the jingling sound of like endings, a fault avoided by the learned ancients both in poetry and all good oratory.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Rhyme can constrain poetic expression; true musicality lies in rhythm, syllable count, and meaning rather than forced endings.
In simple terms: Good poetry relies on rhythm and sense, not forced rhyme.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize natural flow over forced patterns.
Themes
poetry
language
art
expression
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
critical
educational
When to use this quote
- writing poetry
- teaching literature
- editing verse
- creative writing
Key Concepts
rhythm
syllable structure
meaning
musicality
Questions to Reflect On
- Should rhyme ever be used for artistic effect?
- When does rhyme enhance meaning?
A Different Perspective
Rhyme can still be effective for memorability and tradition.