Syntax

Syntax
Definition: (noun) The way in which words are arranged in clauses, phrases and sentences ([|dictionary source]).

Uses and Effect: One simple use of syntax is for the writer to phrase an ordinary sentence or thought in a more captivating way. It helps the sentence flow into the next idea with more ease. For example, in "Carrion Comfort" ([|full text]), Gerard Manley Hopkins uses the phrase "cry I can no more//"// instead of simply writing, "I cannot cry any more." The unique word order better communicates a feeling of hopelessness (Byecroft). Syntax also can be used to arrange words so that they fit other literary devices better (McManus). For instance, in the second verse of "Carrion Comfort", Hopkins doesn't make each line a whole sentence:

//Thy wring-world right foot rock? lay a lionlimb against me? scan With darksome devouring eyes my bruisèd bones? and fan,//

By leaving //scan// in the first line, Hopkins was able to use another literary device: rhyme. The overall use of syntax is simply for the author to improve the voice and tone of the poem by positioning the words in a particular order.

References:
 * Byecroft, Breanna. "Groping Towards Truth in 'Carrion Comfort.'" __The Victorian__ __Web__. 2003. 5 Dec. 2008 .


 * "Carrion Comfort." __Poetry.com__. 2008. 1 Dec. 2008 <http://www.poetry.com/ greatestpoems/poem.asp?id=432>.


 * McManus, Barbara. "Diction and Syntax." __Tools for Analyzing Poetry__. 1998. Coll. of New Rochelle. 5 Dec. 2008 .