Which Phrase From Meeting At Night Contains Alliteration

Which Phrase from "Meeting at Night" Contains Alliteration? Unveiling the Poetic Device in Robert Browning's Work

Robert Browning's "Meeting at Night" is a short, powerful poem renowned for its evocative imagery and masterful use of sound devices. While the entire poem is rich in auditory effects, one phrase stands out for its striking use of alliteration: "And the startled little waves". This seemingly simple line packs a powerful punch, employing alliteration to heighten the sense of suspense and the delicate beauty of the scene. This article will delve deep into this phrase, exploring its alliterative structure, its contribution to the poem's overall effect, and how understanding alliteration can enhance our appreciation of Browning's poetic genius.

Understanding Alliteration: A Foundation in Poetic Devices

Before we dive into the specifics of Browning's use of alliteration, let's establish a firm understanding of the literary device itself. Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words or stressed syllables within a phrase or sentence. It's a powerful tool that poets and writers use to create rhythm, enhance memorability, and add a layer of musicality to their work. Think of tongue twisters – they often rely heavily on alliteration to create a playful challenge.

Alliteration is not merely about the repetition of sounds; it's about how that repetition impacts the reader's experience. It can create a sense of urgency, emphasize particular words, evoke specific emotions, and even mimic the sounds of nature. In Browning's "Meeting at Night," the strategic use of alliteration contributes significantly to the overall mood and atmosphere.

The Power of "And the startled little waves": A Detailed Analysis

Now, let's analyze the phrase "And the startled little waves" in detail. The alliteration here lies in the repetition of the "w" sound. Notice how this sound is repeated in three consecutive words: "waves," "waves," and "waves" (though the repetition of "waves" contributes to other devices, like assonance and internal rhyme, which we may look at later). This repetition isn't just arbitrary; it contributes to the poem's evocative power in several significant ways:

1. Mimicking the Sound of Waves: Onomatopoeia and Alliteration working together

The repeated "w" sound subtly mimics the sound of waves lapping against the shore. This is a form of onomatopoeia, where the word itself imitates the sound it describes. Combined with the alliteration, it creates a vivid auditory experience for the reader, drawing them deeper into the poem's romantic setting. We hear the soft, whispering rhythm of the waves through the artful deployment of this literary device. The "w" sound itself is soft, gentle, yet slightly forceful; these all create an ambiance that befits the scene.

2. Emphasizing the Startled Nature of the Waves: Creating imagery through sound

The alliteration further emphasizes the word "startled." By repeating the "w" sound, Browning draws attention to the waves' reaction to the speaker's arrival. The waves aren't just gently lapping; they're startled, disturbed, almost awakened by the intrusion of the speaker and his lover's secret meeting. This subtle detail adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the scene, hinting at the clandestine nature of the encounter. We aren't merely observing the waves; we feel their subtle shift and sudden awareness.

3. Adding to the Poem's Musicality and Rhythm: Creating a sense of flow

The alliteration also contributes to the poem's overall musicality and rhythm. The repeated "w" sound creates a gentle, flowing rhythm that mirrors the movement of the waves. This rhythmic quality enhances the poem's aesthetic appeal, making it more enjoyable to read and remember. It creates a delicate balance between sound and meaning, a perfect blend that is a signature element of Browning’s work.

4. Creating a Sense of Mystery and Intrigue: An element that is central to Browning's poetic voice.

The subtle disturbance of the waves, suggested by the alliteration, parallels the secretive and clandestine nature of the meeting itself. The soft, yet prominent "w" sound hints at the hidden emotion and forbidden love that are at the heart of the poem. It's as though the waves themselves are conspirators, silently witnessing and participating in the secret encounter. The reader is drawn in, not only through the narrative, but through the very essence of how the narrative is created. This is where the true magic of Browning’s artistry lies.

Alliteration in Other Parts of "Meeting at Night"

While "And the startled little waves" showcases the most prominent and impactful alliteration in the poem, other instances exist, although perhaps less obvious. The skillful use of alliteration throughout the poem contributes to its overall texture and sonic impact. Analyzing these additional instances allows for a deeper appreciation of Browning's poetic technique.

For instance, consider lines like "low landing's long low lowly line." This line is not only using alliteration of the 'l' sound but also assonance with the repeated "ow" sound. The effect is one of a gradual and mysterious build up in the scene, matching the pace of the speaker as he draws closer to his beloved. This sense of slow building is important for establishing the tension and anticipation that are critical to the poem's thematic concerns.

Another example, while less obvious, is the repetition of the "r" sound in some phrases. A reader might observe sounds like those in “reach’d the river” and then later “ride the rolling surge.” The repetition of the "r" sound subtly emphasizes the sense of motion and journey, which underpins the entirety of the poem's narrative structure. Such sounds are created by the poetic device of assonance, but it can be seen to subtly support the sense of overall rhythm through the subtle use of alliteration.

These instances of alliteration, while less pronounced than the “w” sound, contribute to the overall musicality and cohesiveness of the poem. They are more subtle hints that add depth and complexity to the sonic landscape Browning creates.

Alliteration's Role in Enhancing the Poem's Overall Effect

The strategic deployment of alliteration throughout "Meeting at Night" significantly enhances the poem's overall effect. By using alliteration, Browning creates a poem that is not only visually and emotionally striking but also aurally engaging. The poem's impact is strengthened by the way the sounds work together, creating a unique sensory experience for the reader.

The combination of alliteration with other literary devices like imagery, metaphor, and symbolism elevates the poem beyond its literal meaning. It transcends mere description; it evokes emotions, creates atmosphere, and engages the reader on multiple levels. The poem is not just read; it’s experienced.

This integration of literary devices highlights the sophistication of Browning's poetic craft. His use of alliteration is not merely decorative; it's a crucial element in conveying the poem's central themes of love, secrecy, and the intensity of a passionate encounter.

Conclusion: Beyond the Phrase – Alliteration as a Poetic Tool

While the phrase "And the startled little waves" stands out for its powerful and evident use of alliteration in "Meeting at Night," the poem's artistry extends beyond this single line. Browning's masterful use of alliteration, combined with other literary techniques, creates a rich tapestry of sound and meaning. Understanding these poetic devices helps us appreciate the depth and complexity of Browning's work and unlock a deeper understanding of the poem's evocative power. The analysis of alliteration in “Meeting at Night” allows us to see how a single literary device can be used to weave together a complex and unforgettable sensory experience for the reader. This careful crafting of language is a crucial component of Browning’s mastery and enduring appeal. By exploring these nuances, we can better appreciate the subtle artistry of Robert Browning and his contribution to English literature. The poem is more than just words on a page; it's an immersive experience shaped by the strategic use of sound and language. And the understanding of alliteration provides a key to unlocking that experience.