Question

In 100 words or less, identify and give an example of at least two sound devices used in Edna St. Vincent Millay's poem, "The Courage That My Mother Had."

Answer 1

The sound devices used are rhyme and rhythm. The author used these two poetic devices to highlight the musicality of the poem. The rhyme scheme is alternate (abab cdcd efef). Although the rhyme is not perfect, the intention to rhyme is evident. Like the rhyme pattern, the rhythm is also apparent, although not perfect. Each line has 8 syllables, few have 7. This uniform number of syllables establish a steady beat when the lines are read.