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Upon what is the parallelism of Hebrew poetry based?

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Final answer:

Hebrew poetry's parallelism is built on similar or equivalent constructions within the poem, creating symmetry and balance that enhances memorability and auditory appeal. This technique is used for emphasis, structure, and to create different tones or perspectives within the poetic work.

Step-by-step explanation:

Parallelism in Hebrew poetry is based on the use of similar or equivalent constructions of phrases or clauses to emphasize an idea. This technique creates symmetry and balance within a poem, making an idea easier to remember and more pleasing to the ear. For example, President John F. Kennedy utilized parallelism in his inaugural address for organizational structure and to make a strong impact. Parallelism can also intertwine with anaphora and epistrophe, which are forms of repetition that enhance the rhythm and emphasize certain concepts in literature. In Hebrew poetry, this repetition and parallelism can be seen as a fundamental aspect that shapes the understanding and interpretation of the text.

To further illustrate, consider a poem with a repeated use of 'you' in the first part, and a change in tone in the latter part. This establishes a sense of dialogue or audience initially and a more introspective tone as the poem progresses. The effect is to create a sense of parallel experiences that resonate with readers on different levels. It's not just about the content but also how the structure and organization conveys the message.

Moreover, considering the indentation in poetry, such as in lines five and nine in a stanza, it can affect the reading pace, emphasizing certain lines or words, which influences the poem's overall impact. Similarly, literary devices such as metaphors, symbols like the loom, a river, or a mirror, contribute to the depth of meaning and are subject to various interpretations.

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