Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

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Prepare for the AP English Literature exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

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What is enjambment primarily used for in poetry?

To create a pause in the reading
To emphasize a particular word
To run a sentence over multiple lines with little pause
To employ rhyme in each line

The correct answer is: To run a sentence over multiple lines with little pause

Enjambment is a poetic technique where a sentence or phrase runs over from one line to the next without a terminal punctuation mark, creating a sense of continuity and flow. This method enhances the rhythm of the poem and can influence how the reader experiences the pacing and emotional weight of the language. By running over multiple lines, enjambment often invites readers to move quickly through the text, maintaining momentum and building tension as they await the completion of the thought in the subsequent line. This quality allows poets to manipulate the structure of their work to convey urgency or to control the reader's interpretation and engagement with the poem's content.