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Adonic verse

Meter
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

A metrical pattern formed by a dactyl (— ∪ ∪) followed by a trochee (— ∪), creating a five-syllable unit; it lends a swift, graceful movement, often used in the final line of Sapphic stanzas.

Detailed Definition
Adonic verse refers broadly to poetry employing the Adonic line—dactyl + trochee—as a structural or rhythmic feature, typically in elegiac or devotional contexts; it evokes classical antiquity and is often used to signal lament, reverence, or mythological allusion in modern verse.
Example
Example in poetry:
Sappho’s fragments often close with Adonic lines (˘ ¯ ¯ ˘ ¯) for lyrical intensity; Catullus uses Adonic verse in wedding hymns for rhythmic solemnity; Modern adaptations appear in H.D.’s translations of Greek lyric; The Adonic line’s brevity suits epigrammatic or elegiac moments; Its trochaic-dactylic blend creates a falling, sigh-like cadence.
Additional Notes
Poetry using Adonic rhythm systematically. Very rare as sustained practice—usually Adonic appears as closing line (Sapphic stanza). Short lines create rapid pace.
Also Known As
Adonic line Adonic meter Adonic dimeter Adonic
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