Final answer:
The internal structure of a poem includes its line length, stanza arrangement, rhythm, indentation, and punctuation. These elements shape the poem's reading aloud and contribute to its meaning, as seen in Robert Frost's "Design" and Robinson Jeffers' "The Eye".
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Internal Structure of Poetry
The internal structure of a poem refers to its organizational framework, which encompasses elements such as line length, stanza arrangement, rhythm, indentation, and punctuation. These elements contribute to the overall meaning and effect of a poem. For example, line length can affect the poem's rhythm and pace, guiding how the poem is read aloud and influencing its tone. Indentations can be used to create visual emphasis or to indicate a change in tone or perspective within the poem.
Let's consider an example from "Design" by Robert Frost, where the rhythm and structure are carefully crafted to enhance the poem's themes. The poem's balanced quatrains and the use of symbols like the loom and river invite readers to explore deeper meanings. Moreover, the indentation of certain lines in the poem may draw the reader's attention to specific words or ideas, adding another layer of meaning.
In Robinson Jeffers' "The Eye", the variation between long and short lines creates an effect on the reader's breath, thereby intensifying the imagery and the poem's contemplation of the natural world. Similarly, Alexander Pope's An Essay on Criticism is a classic example where the use of rhythm is integral to the poem’s impact, as it emphasizes certain words and emotions.