Etymology of Cadence
The term “cadence” has originated from the Latin word cadential. It is the noun form of the verb cadere, which means “to fall.” In Latin, it refers to the act of falling or descending. Over time, the word has evolved into “cadencia” in Old French. Later, it entered into the English language.
Meanings of Literary Device of Cadence
| Type of Meaning | Definition or Explanation |
| Musical Rhythm | It refers to the rhythmic flow or pattern that marks the end of a musical phrase or section. It involves a sequence of chords or melodic patterns that provide a sense of resolution or closure. |
| Speech or Vocal Rhythm | In language and speech, it refers to the rise and fall of the voice’s pitch and rhythm. It contributes to the overall flow and musicality of spoken words, conveying emotional tone, emphasis, or the natural rhythm of a particular language. |
| Literary Rhythm | In poetry and literature, cadence refers to the rhythmic pattern or musical quality of the verses. It involves the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables and the flow of the language, contributing to the poem’s tone, mood, and emphasis. |
| Military Marching | In military terminology, it refers to the rhythmic movement or march of soldiers. It involves synchronized foot movements and chanting or singing to maintain uniformity. |
| Cycling or Running Rhythm | In sports, particularly cycling and running, cadence refers to the rate or rhythm of pedal strokes or foot strikes per minute. It is often measured to optimize efficiency and performance. |
| Flow or Progression | It also refers more broadly to the flow, progression, or pace of any activity. For example, it can describe the cadence of a conversation, the cadence of a dance routine, or the cadence of a storytelling narrative, emphasizing the rhythmic or harmonic aspects of the activity. |
Definition of Cadence as Literary Device
As a literary device, it refers to the rhythmic pattern or musical quality of verse or prose. It involves the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables and the flow of the language, contributing to the rhythm, melody, and emphasis within a literary work.
Common Examples of Cadences from Everyday Life
- Conversational Cadence: People naturally have their own speech cadences characterized by the rhythm, pace, and intonation patterns they use while speaking.
- Walking or Running Cadence: When walking or running, individuals often establish a particular rhythm in their steps.
- Typing or Keyboard Cadence: When typing on a keyboard, individuals develop a distinctive form of it based on the speed, rhythm, and pattern of their keystrokes.
- Music Listening Cadence: When listening to music, individuals may naturally move or tap their feet in sync with the beat or rhythm of the music.
- Dance Cadence: In its various forms, individuals follow specific cadences or rhythmic patterns as they move their bodies. Whether it’s a waltz, salsa, or hip-hop, each dance style has its unique form that dancers must adhere to for coordination and synchronization.
- Traffic Light Cadence: The regular sequence of traffic lights at intersections establishes it for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. People anticipate the rhythm of green, yellow, and red signals, adjusting their movements and actions accordingly.
Types of Cadences in Music
| Type of Cadence | Explanation | Example |
| Authentic Cadence | Also known as a perfect type, an authentic cadence is a strong and conclusive cadence that provides a sense of resolution. It typically involves a progression from the dominant chord (V) to the tonic chord (I) in major or minor keys. | G major to C major |
| Plagal Cadence | A plagal form, also called an “Amen cadence,” is a cadence that moves from the subdominant chord (IV) to the tonic chord (I). It has a gentler and more peaceful sound compared to the authentic cadence and is often associated with hymns and religious music. | F major to C major |
| Half Cadence | A half cadence, also known as an imperfect one, creates a temporary pause or sense of incompleteness. It typically concludes with the dominant chord (V) and leaves the listener with a feeling of expectation for further musical development. | G major to D major |
| Deceptive Cadence | A deceptive cadence is an unexpected or “deceptive” resolution that deviates from the expected progression. Instead of resolving to the tonic chord (I), it resolves to a different chord, often the relative major or minor, creating a sense of surprise or tension. | G major to E minor |
| Phrygian Cadence | The Phrygian cadence, also known as the “Andalusian cadence,” is used in flamenco and Spanish music. It involves a progression from the subdominant chord (IV) to the dominant chord (V) and then to the tonic chord (I), creating a distinctive and evocative sound. | F major to G major to C major |
Literary Examples of Cadences
“Just like moons and like suns,
With the certainty of tides,
Just like hopes springing high,
Still I’ll rise.”
Explanation: In this empowering poem, Maya Angelou employs a cadence that emphasizes resilience and strength. The repetition of the phrase “Still I’ll rise” creates a rhythmic and uplifting pattern, reinforcing the theme of overcoming adversity and asserting one’s worth.
“124 was spiteful. Full of baby’s venom.
The women in the house knew it and so did the children.”
Explanation: This opening passage from Morrison’s novel, Beloved, showcases her poetic prose and effective use of this term. The fragmented sentences and repetition of certain phrases create a haunting and rhythmic quality, reflecting the dark and complex themes explored in the novel.
“Attention must be paid.
He’s not to be allowed to fall into his grave like an old dog.”
Explanation: In this iconic play, Arthur Miller employs this device that adds emphasis and weight to the dialogue. The repetition of the phrase “He’s not to be allowed” followed by a simile creates a rhythmic pattern that highlights the importance of paying attention to the protagonist’s struggles and humanity.
- “Hills Like White Elephants” by Ernest Hemingway
“The man looked at the hills across the valley
And down the valley toward a stream
Where the opposite shore was wooded.”
Explanation: Hemingway’s minimalist style often carries an understated cadence that contributes to the atmosphere of his stories. In this excerpt, the repetition of the prepositional phrases and the parallel structure creates a deliberate rhythm, reflecting the contemplative and detached tone of the narrative.
Suggested Readings
- Caplin, William E. “The Classical Cadence: Conceptions and Misconceptions.” Journal of American Musicological Society 57.1 (2004): 51-118.
- Durkin, Rachael, ed. The Routledge Companion to Music and Modern Literature. Taylor & Francis, 2022.
- Glaser, Ben, and Jonathan Culler. Critical Rhythm: The Poetics of a Literary Life Form. Fordham University Press, 2019.
- Kennedy, Victor, ed. Symphony and Song: The Intersection of Words and Music. Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 2016.
- Whittall, Arnold. “A Theory of Musical Narrative. By Byron Almén.” Music and Letters 91.2 (2010): 299-303.
