Perfect rhymes share the same vowel and consonant sounds following the vowel, as in “curl,” “girl,” and “whirl.” Near rhymes, also known as slant or half rhymes, share some, but not all, of these sounds, such as “world” or “churl.” These variations in sound create different effects in poetry and songwriting.
The ability to identify and utilize rhyming words is a foundational element of prosody, the study of rhythm and sound in poetry. Historically, rhyme has served numerous purposes, from mnemonic devices in oral traditions to adding aesthetic richness and emotional depth in literary works. Skilled manipulation of these sonic patterns can heighten impact, create memorable phrasing, and enhance a work’s overall coherence.
