Poetry is a beautiful and expressive form of literature that uses rhythm, imagery, and language to evoke emotions and thoughts. One of the unique aspects of poetry is the use of specific words and phrases that may not be commonly used in everyday conversation, but they add an extra layer of depth and meaning to the poems. One such term in poetry is the word used to denote “before”. In the poetic realm, the common word ‘before’ often finds its substitute in another term.
The Poetic Term for ‘Before’
In the poetic lexicon, the term commonly used for ‘before’ is Ere. It is not frequently employed in everyday language but finds its place securely in the world of poetry and literature. Here are a few instances in which ‘ere’ has been used:
- ‘Ere this’, meaning before this.
- ‘Ere now’, connoting before now or before the present moment.
- ‘Ere long’, another way of stating before long or shortly.
Contextual Use of ‘Ere’
Observation reveals that ‘ere’ is often used in classic poems, sonnets, and even in traditional limericks, adding an element of antiquity and elegance. The strategic placement of ‘ere’ lends a certain rhythmic fluidity to the lines while maintaining the overall meter of the poem.
- In effect, to substitute ‘before’ with ‘ere’ is an artistic decision to refine the aesthetics of the language and the flow of words.
- It is also important to note that ‘ere’ is different from ‘Ere’, an anglicized form of the Norse God Eir.
Examples in Poetry
Ere has been used innumerable times across history, narrating tales, emotions, and thoughts even before the modern word ‘before’ found widespread acceptance.
- Samuel Taylor Coleridge used ‘ere’ effectively in his poem “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” – “He holds him with his glittering eye – The Wedding-Guest stood still, And listens like a three year’s child: The Mariner hath his will. “The ship was cheered, the harbour cleared, Merrily did we drop Below the kirk, below the hill, Below the lighthouse top. The Sun came up upon the left, Out of the sea came he! And he shone bright, and on the right Went down into the sea. Higher and higher every day, Till over the mast at noon -” The Wedding-Guest here beat his breast, For he heard the loud bassoon. The bride hath paced into the hall, Red as a rose is she; Nodding their heads before her goes The merry minstrelsy. The Wedding-Guest he beat his breast, Yet he cannot choose but hear; And thus spake on that ancient man, The bright-eyed Mariner. Listen, Stranger! Storm and Wind, A Wind and Tempest strong! For days and weeks it play’d us freaks – Like Chaff we drove along.”
Conclusions
Understanding the essence of poetry requires us to delve into the rich vocabulary that adds to its melodious aura. ‘Ere’ is one such word that has been woven into the vibrant tapestry of poetry and continues to be a significant term in the poetic context, referring to ‘before’. Though not commonly used in everyday dialogue, its elegance and classic charm remind us of the beauty and expressiveness of the poetic language.