Internal Rhymes: A Hidden Gem in Poetic Artistry

Rhyme is a fundamental element in poetry, enhancing the auditory appeal and memorability of verses. While external rhymes, where the rhymes occur at the ends of two or more lines, are the more common form, internal rhymes, where the rhymes are embedded within the lines, offer a subtler, more complex form of poetic texture. Let’s explore the concept of internal rhymes through examples, including a famous song by Cole Porter and a snippet from the musical film Mulan.

Understanding Internal Rhymes

Internal rhymes refer to the rhyming of a word within a sentence or line with a word in another line. Unlike external rhymes, which are usually found at the ending of phrases or lines, internal rhymes can be more challenging to spot and often require a closer reading. They can add a unique layer of depth and auditory interest to the poem, making the language more engaging and the meaning more memorable.

Examples of Internal Rhymes

1. Cole Porter’s "Anything Goes"

One of the most famous examples of internal rhymes comes from the Cole Porter song "Anything Goes," which is celebrated for its witty and sophisticated lyrics. While the full song is a treasure trove of internal rhymes, a snippet captures the essence:

Anything Goes

You’ve got to savoir vivre, You’ve got to be aware Of just what you dare;

That’s the place to be, anything goes!

In this excerpt, the word "above" in the first line rhymes with "Aware" in the second line, and "aware" is again used in the third line to maintain the rhyming effect. This internal rhyme works so well because it enhances the flow and rhythm of the sentence, adding depth to the otherwise straightforward words.

2. The Song “Make a Man of You” from Mulan

Another wonderful example of internal rhymes can be found in the song "Make a Man of You," from the 2008 Disney animated film, Mulan. Here’s a snippet from the lyrics:

Boy was I a fool in school
for cutting gym.

In these lines, the word "school" in the first line rhymes with "gym" in the second line, creating an internal rhyme that adds a subtle humorous touch to the lines.

The Impact of Internal Rhymes

Internal rhymes can make poems more engaging by breaking the rhythm and pattern in a subtle yet significant way. They can also add a layer of sophistication and complexity to the words, making the poem more memorable and impactful. For instance, in Cole Porter's lyrics, internal rhymes enhance the wit and sophistication of the language, while in the Mulan song, they add a touch of humor and intensity.

Conclusion

Internal rhymes are a powerful tool in poetic artistry, offering a hidden gem within the verses. They enhance the auditory appeal of the words, creating a more engaging and memorable experience for the reader or listener. Whether it's the sophisticated style of Cole Porter or the humorous simplicity of the Mulan lyrics, internal rhymes make a significant contribution to the art of poetry.

If you’re interested in exploring more about poetic techniques, including other forms of rhyme and meter, or if you want to write your own poems with internal rhymes, the examples provided can serve as a great starting point.