Final answer:
A syllabic vocal line has one note per syllable, while a melismatic line has multiple notes for a single syllable. The choice between melismatic or syllabic styles affects the poem's or song's rhythm, tone, and emotional impact. Factors such as genre, tradition, and expression guide this decision.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distinction between melismatic and syllabic singing styles is an important aspect of prosody in poetry and music. A syllabic vocal line is one where each syllable of the text is matched to a single musical note, creating a more direct and speech-like rhythm. In contrast, a melismatic line is characterized by multiple notes attached to a single syllable, which creates a more elaborate and decorative musical setting for the text.
Considering the various examples provided, such as the lined-out hymns which are indicative of a melismatic style, and the rhythmic and rhyming patterns seen in the works of Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan which often mirror syllabic forms, we can observe how the vocal line might lean towards either approach. In formal poetry, the length of lines and the chosen meter heavily influence these styles. The intricate decision of line length captures not only the visual appeal on the page but also plays a significant role in the audible representation, contributing to tone, breath, and the overall musical rhythm of the piece.
Ultimately, whether a poet or a musician opts for a melismatic or syllabic approach can dramatically affect the poem's or song's emotional impact and aesthetic. The decision is often informed by a variety of factors, including tradition, the desired expressive power of the words, and the formal constraints of the genre.