What is word register in poem?

In poetry, a word register refers to the level of formality or informality of the language used in a poem. It can range from very formal and elevated language to very informal and colloquial language. The choice of word register is often used to create a specific tone or atmosphere in a poem, and can also be used to reflect the social or economic status of the characters or speakers in a poem.

For example, a poem that uses a very formal and elevated word register might create a sense of seriousness or grandeur, while a poem that uses a very informal and colloquial word register might create a sense of intimacy or familiarity. The word register of a poem can also be used to create irony or humor, by using language that is unexpected or out of place.

Here are some examples of different word registers in poetry:

* Formal and elevated:

* "I have heard the chimes at midnight,

Mastering the air,

And seen the morning breaking,

Silver-sweet and rare."

(Alfred, Lord Tennyson, "In Memoriam A.H.H.")

* Informal and colloquial:

* "I'm a ramblin' man, I'm a gamblin' man,

I'm a loner, I'm a drifter,

I'm a rebel, I'm a rover."

(Hank Williams, "I'm a Ramblin' Man")

* Ironic or humorous:

* "The curfew tolls the knell of parting day,

The lowing herd winds slowly o'er the lea,

The plowman homeward plods his weary way,

And leaves the world to darkness and to me."

(Thomas Gray, "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard")

The word register of a poem is an important element in creating the overall meaning and effect of the poem, and can be used to create a variety of different tones and atmospheres.