This text uses machine data of poetry readings to discover features of rhythm and intonation and to clear away methodological problems that hamper the teaching of poetic melody. The discussion is linked to the theory of literary form, throwing light on the role of emotion in poetry and fiction.

Inhalt

Rule and performance; musical form and poetic stress; intonation contours; voicing patterns and the pace of poetry; the poet's finesse; the music of translation; Eve in the garden; tunes and instants; narrative in performance; poles apart and together; the universal giant; emotion in literary response.