General Rules:
* Usually Not: Commas are not typically used at the end of a line in poetry unless there's a specific reason to do so.
* Emphasis: Commas can be used to create emphasis, pause, or a sense of continuation.
Reasons to Use a Comma at the End of a Line:
* To Break Up Long Lines: For readability, a comma might break a very long line into two shorter ones.
* To Mimic Speech Patterns: A comma might be used to reflect a natural pause or intonation in spoken language.
* To Create a Sense of Suspense: A comma can leave the reader hanging, anticipating the next line.
* To Connect Lines: A comma can bridge two lines together, creating a sense of flow.
Examples:
* Without Comma:
> The moon, a silver coin in the sky,
> Shines on the sleeping world below.
* With Comma:
> The moon, a silver coin in the sky,
> shines on the sleeping world below.
> The waves crash against the shore,
> relentless,
> a symphony of sound.
Key Points:
* Choice is Up to the Poet: Ultimately, whether or not to use a comma at the end of a line is a stylistic choice made by the poet.
* Context Matters: The context and effect you're trying to achieve in your poem will influence this decision.
Let me know if you have any more poetry questions!