How can I determine the meter and rhythm of a poem? How do I know if a syllable is stressed or unstressed?

Basically, a stressed syllable is pronounced a little more loudly than an unstressed syllable.

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The meter IS the rhythm.
http://www.writing.upenn.edu/~afilreis/88/meter.html

http://www.cs.rice.edu/~ssiyer/minstrels/poems/635.html

That was the poem in which I learned meter. It is hard to avoid the stress-unstress syllables.

To determine the meter and rhythm of a poem, as well as the stressed and unstressed syllables, you can follow these steps:

1. Read the poem: Read the poem aloud to get a sense of its overall flow and rhythm. Pay attention to any patterns that emerge while reading.

2. Identify the metrical pattern: There are various metrical patterns used in poetry, such as iambic pentameter (five pairs of unstressed and stressed syllables) or trochaic tetrameter (four pairs of stressed and unstressed syllables). Look for recurring patterns of stressed and unstressed syllables as you read through the poem.

3. Mark the stressed and unstressed syllables: To determine whether a syllable is stressed or unstressed, you need to consider its natural pronunciation in the context of the poem. Stressed syllables are said with emphasis or more force, while unstressed syllables are spoken more softly or quickly. Try pronouncing each word in the poem, emphasizing the syllables that seem stronger or receive more emphasis. Mark the stressed syllables with a (/) and the unstressed syllables with a (x) or a (u) above each syllable.

4. Analyze the pattern: Once you have marked the stressed and unstressed syllables, observe and analyze the patterns that emerge. Pay attention to the number of syllables per line and the sequence of stressed and unstressed syllables. This will help you determine the specific meter of the poem, such as iambic, trochaic, anapestic, or dactylic.

5. Consider variations: While many poems adhere to a consistent metrical pattern, some poets intentionally deviate from it for artistic purposes. These variations are known as metrical deviations, and they can add emphasis to certain words or phrases. Look for any variations or irregularities in the poem, as they may provide insight into the poet's intentions.

Remember, determining meter and rhythm in a poem requires practice and familiarity with different poetic forms and their associated patterns. Additionally, it's important to consider that interpretations may vary among readers, so it's helpful to engage in discussions or seek further analysis to deepen your understanding.