Iambic tetrameter

A metrical pattern of four iambs per line, each normally consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

A metrical pattern containing four iambs per line, each consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

Much of the poem uses iambic tetrameter: four pairs of syllables moving from an unstressed to a stressed beat. In “I wander through each chartered street,” the alternating stresses can resemble measured footsteps. The recurring beat and rhyme help create the impression of a relentless trudge through the city.

A metrical pattern usually containing four iambs per line: each iamb has an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

A rhythmic pattern usually consisting of four iambs per line; each iamb has an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

A metrical pattern of four feet per line, each normally consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

The first three lines of each stanza generally move towards four beats, often using iambic tetrameter. The fourth line is noticeably shorter, usually falling to around two or three beats. In stanza 1, the movement contracts into ‘And no birds sing.’ in line 4.

A line of verse normally containing four pairs of syllables, each pair moving from an unstressed syllable to a stressed syllable.

A verse rhythm usually containing four pairs of syllables per line, with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable in each pair.

A metrical pattern of four iambic feet per line, each normally moving from an unstressed to a stressed syllable. Poets can vary this pattern to create emphasis or natural speech.

A pattern of four metrical feet in a line, each usually containing an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

A pattern of four metrical feet per line, each normally consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

The metre is predominantly iambic tetrameter: four beats, normally built from an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one. The final line can be heard as and DAN-ces WITH the DAF-fo-DILS. Its regular movement can suggest the dancing celebrated by the poem.

Definition

How each exam board covers it

AQA GCSE English Literature · 8702

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Edexcel GCSE English Literature · 1ET0

Eduqas GCSE English Literature · C720