Spondee

A spondee is a metrical foot in poetry that consists of two stressed syllables. This pattern creates a strong, emphatic rhythm, often used for emphasis or to slow down the pace of a poem. The equal stress of both syllables distinguishes it from other feet like iambs (unstressed/stressed) and trochees (stressed/unstressed). Spondees are relatively rare in English verse, often employed for dramatic effect or to vary the existing meter.

Spondee meaning with examples

• In the line "Break, break, break," Tennyson utilizes a spondaic pattern. The repeated, emphatic stresses on 'Break' create a powerful and sorrowful rhythm reflecting the emotional weight of the poem.
• Shakespeare sometimes employed spondees for emphasis. In "To be, or not to be," the line's stressed syllables in 'To' and 'be' creates a bold and pondering tone reflecting the character's thoughts.
• Poets use spondees to slow down the pace for emphasis. 'Good night, Good night' offers a moment of pause for reflection and introspection, highlighting the speaker's desire for an end.
• Spondees are also found in some folk songs. 'Dead Man's Road' is a great use of the spondaic style with repeated sounds such as 'Dead', 'Man' creating a strong driving rhythm.