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The pleasure of poetic pattern - David Silverstein

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TEDEd Animation

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Humans are creatures of rhythm and repetition. From our breath to our gait: rhythm is central to our experience, and often brings us pleasure. We can find pleasure in the rhythm of a song, or even the rows of an orchard. Of course, too much repetition can also backfire. David Silverstein describes what poetic repetition is and why it works.

What are some of your favorite song lyrics that employ repetition? How do they use poetic devices such as rhyme, assonance, consonance, or alliteration?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator David Silverstein
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Director Avi Ofer
  • Animator Avi Ofer
  • Composer Stephen LaRosa
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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