Exact Rhyme: A Literary Device

Etymology of Exact Rhyme

The term “exact rhyme” has its roots in the etymology of the word “exact,” which originates from the Latin word “exactus,” meaning “precise” or “thoroughly done.”

In the context of poetry, “exact rhyme” refers to a precise and strict form of rhyme where the final stressed syllables of two or more words share identical sounds, both in terms of vowel and consonant sounds, resulting in a harmonious and unmistakable aural correspondence. This type of rhyme is a fundamental element of traditional poetic forms, ensuring a clear and predictable sound pattern within verses, enhancing the overall structure and musicality of the poem.

Meanings of Exact Rhyme

Aspect	Meaning
Precise Sound Correspondence	In poetry, exact rhyme involves identical vowel and consonant sounds in the final stressed syllables.
Enhances Musicality	It creates a harmonious sound pattern, enhancing a poem’s musicality and rhythm.
Common in Traditional Forms	Found in traditional poetic structures, it contributes to overall verse structure and lyrical quality.
Distinguishing from Near Rhyme	Unlike near rhyme, exact rhyme requires identical final syllable sounds, not just similarities.

Definition of Exact Rhyme

Exact rhyme, a prominent literary device, signifies the precise correspondence of both vowel and consonant sounds in the final stressed syllables of words within poetry, enhancing the poem’s musicality and rhythm.

It is commonly found in traditional poetic forms, contributing to the overall structural integrity and lyrical quality of the verse.

Distinguishing itself from near rhyme, exact rhyme necessitates the complete identity of these final syllable sounds, setting a stricter standard for rhyme in literature.

Common Examples of Exact Rhymes

1. Cat and Hat: In nursery rhymes or children’s stories, words like “cat” and “hat” are often used as exact rhymes to create a playful and memorable rhythm.
2. Moon and June: In songs and poetic expressions of love, words like “moon” and “June” are classic examples of exact rhymes that convey romantic sentiments.
3. Merry and Berry: Phrases like “merry and bright” or “berry sweet” in holiday greetings and descriptions are examples of exact rhymes that evoke a cheerful and festive atmosphere.
4. Friend and Extend: In everyday conversation, words like “friend” and “extend” form exact rhymes that facilitate effective communication.
5. Laugh and Staff: When using humor or wordplay, exact rhymes like “laugh” and “staff” are often employed to create clever and memorable expressions.
6. Train and Plane: In discussions about transportation, words like “train” and “plane” serve as exact rhymes to clarify the modes of travel.
7. Book and Look: In educational contexts, words like “book” and “look” form exact rhymes that help in teaching and memorization.
8. Time and Rhyme: When discussing poetry or music, words like “time” and “rhyme” are common exact rhymes that emphasize the importance of rhythm and structure in creative works.
9. Food and Mood: In culinary contexts, words like “food” and “mood” are often exact rhymes used to describe how certain dishes can influence one’s emotional state.
10. Rain and Spain: When talking about travel destinations or weather, words like “rain” and “Spain” create an exact rhyme that makes the conversation more engaging and memorable.

Shakespearean Exact Rhymes

1. From Sonnet 18:
   • “Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May.”
   • “And summer’s lease hath all too short a date.”
2. From “Romeo and Juliet”:
   • “O brawling love! O loving hate!”
   • “O heavy lightness, serious vanity!”
3. From “Macbeth”:
   • “Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player.”
   • “It is a tale told by an idiot.”
4. From “Hamlet”:
   • “To be or not to be, that is the question.”
   • “To die, to sleep; to sleep, perchance to dream.”
5. From “The Tempest”:
   • “Full fathom five thy father lies.”
   • “Those are pearls that were his eyes.”

These examples showcase Shakespeare’s adeptness at using exact rhymes to create memorable and melodious lines in his plays and sonnets, contributing to the enduring appeal of his work.

Suggested Readings

1. Hollander, John. Rhyme’s Reason: A Guide to English Verse. Yale University Press, 1989.
2. Rico, Gabriel. Writing the Natural Way: Using Right-Brain Techniques to Release Your Expressive Powers. J.P. Tarcher, 2000.
3. Kipperman, Mark. Telling the Little Secrets: American Jewish Writing since the 1980s. Northwestern University Press, 2006.
4. Kolln, Martha J., and Robert Funk. Understanding English Grammar. Pearson, 2002.