Examples of Poetry with the ABAB Rhyme Scheme: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to ABAB Rhyme Scheme

The ABAB rhyme scheme is a common and versatile structure used in poetry, wherein the first and third lines (A) rhyme, and the second and fourth lines (B) rhyme. This creates a balanced and flowing pattern that enhances the auditory experience of the poem. This article will explore a range of examples from classical to contemporary poets, highlighting the unique characteristics of this rhyme scheme.

The ABAB Rhyme Scheme: Definition and Explanation

The ABAB rhyme scheme can be found in various forms of poetry, from traditional sonnets to contemporary free verse. It provides a structured yet flexible framework that allows poets to experiment with rhythm and meter. This scheme often creates a sense of contrast or resolution in consecutive pairs of lines, making it a popular choice among romantic and Victorian poets.

Classic Examples of ABAB Rhyme Scheme

Robert Frost’s "The People Along the Sand"

The People Along the Sand

The people along the sand
Are all one way to turn.
They turn their back on the land
And look at the sea all day.

This poem by Robert Frost is a prime example of the ABAB rhyme scheme. The contrast between the actions of the people (turning their back on the land) and their prolonged gaze at the sea creates a meaningful theme about human behavior and perception.

Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18

Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18

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:

Like many of Shakespeare’s sonnets, this one uses the ABAB rhyme scheme. It beautifully contrasts the immutable beauty of the subject with the fleeting nature of summer, a classic theme in literature.

Modern Examples of ABAB Rhyme Scheme

The Poem "Here is an Example of a Tiny Bit of Verse"

Here is an Example of a Tiny Bit of Verse

Here is a poem by Alexander Pope

It is only just a sample
But oh well it could be worse:
Here is a poem by Alexander Pope
It’s a fact that Pope is underrated

This contemporary example, though simplistic, demonstrates the ABAB rhyme scheme in a humorous and relatable manner. Pope, known for his intricate poetic constructs, here showcases a straightforward yet charming piece.

Alexander Pope’s Poetic Legacy and the ABAB Scheme

Alexander Pope, a prominent figure in English literature, is often misunderstood due to his contributions during the Age of Reason. He wrote predominantly in heroic couplets but also used the ABAB rhyme scheme effectively in his more accessible works. His poem "Of Manners Gentle of Affections Mild," originally written in the form of an epitaph, is a prime example of this:

Of Manners, gentle of Affections Mild,
In Wit a Man, Simplicity a Child:
With native Humour tempering virtuous Rage,
Form’d to delight and lash the age:

Despite his hunchback, a condition he faced from his teenage years, Pope’s poetry is a testament to his wit and charm. His ability to mock his own disabilities and those of others reflects his humor and resilience. This excerpt captures his unique blend of social commentary and literary elegance, encapsulated within the ABAB rhyme scheme.

Conclusion

From the classic works of Robert Frost and Shakespeare to contemporary pieces like Pope’s, the ABAB rhyme scheme offers poets a flexible yet structured means to convey their thoughts and emotions. This rhyme scheme not only enhances the auditory appeal of the poem but also creates a sense of balance and contrast, making it a valuable tool in the poetic arsenal.