1. Emphasis and Contrast:
* Highlighting a key idea: The different word stands out, drawing attention to its meaning and significance.
* Creating tension: The jarring sound disrupts the expected rhythm, creating a sense of unease or surprise.
* Amplifying a specific emotion: The contrasting sound might evoke a particular feeling, like sadness amidst a cheerful tone.
2. Sound Devices:
* Alliteration: Using similar-sounding words, followed by a different one, can create a playful effect or emphasize the contrasting word.
* Assonance: A similar vowel sound followed by a different one can create a subtle dissonance, enhancing the overall effect.
* Consonance: Similar consonant sounds, broken by a different one, can create a rhythmic pattern that highlights the contrasting word.
3. Symbolic Meaning:
* Figurative language: The different word might be a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech, adding depth and complexity to the poem.
* Representing change: The different word could signify a shift in the poem's theme, mood, or speaker's perspective.
* Contrasting realities: The different word might represent a different world, a different way of thinking, or a different point of view.
4. Musicality:
* Breaking monotony: The different word introduces variety to the rhythm and sound of the poem.
* Creating a musical effect: The contrasting sound can enhance the musicality of the poem, creating a pleasing or jarring effect.
Ultimately, the reason for using a different-sounding word depends on the specific context of the poem. The poet's choice reflects their intention to create a specific effect, whether it's emphasis, contrast, symbolism, or simply a musical effect. By analyzing the poem's content, structure, and sound devices, we can understand the poet's purpose and appreciate the impact of this technique.