A monorhyme is a poem (or stanza) in which all lines share the same end rhyme. Unlike other rhyme schemes that mix different sounds throughout a poem (such as ABAB or AABB), monorhyme sticks to one rhyme pattern consistently. If the first line ends in “day,” then every line after must also end with a word that rhymes with day—such as way, stay, play, and so on.
Here’s a quick example of a monorhyme stanza with a rap-inspired rhythm:
Every line above follows the same -eeze sound, keeping the monorhyme rhyme scheme intact while maintaining a steady, rhythmic flow.
Monorhyme can be used in short poems, individual stanzas, or even longer pieces. However, since it relies on a single sound, it requires creativity to avoid feeling repetitive. Some poets use this structure to create a song-like quality, while others use it to build tension or humor.
Monorhyme appears in both classic and modern poetry, though it’s more common in oral traditions and songs. Here are a few well-known examples:
1. Shakespeare’s Riddle in The Merchant of Venice
In one part of the play, Shakespeare uses monorhyme in a riddle, where every line ends with the -old sound (gold, told, sold, hold). This repetitive structure gives the riddle a sing-song effect, making it easier to remember.
2. William Blake’s Silent, Silent Night
Blake’s poem follows a classic monorhyme rhyme scheme that many still study today. Each stanza introduces a new rhyme and has the same sound for the ending lines. The effect is a gentle and the rhythm matches the poem’s theme of nighttime tranquility.
3. Hip Hop Freestyle Bars
Many rappers, from classic lyricists to modern emcees, have used the monorhyme rhyme scheme in their verses. A perfect example would be a freestyle battle where an artist locks into one rhyme sound for an extended time:
This kind of structure creates a hypnotic rhythm, especially when performed over a beat. Monorhyme makes it easier to maintain flow while emphasizing wordplay and delivery.
4. Modern Example: A Monorhyme for the Shower
Contemporary poet Dick Davis crafted an entire poem using monorhyme, where every line ends with a word rhyming with hair. The poem plays with language while maintaining its tight, repeating structure.
Some of the best monorhyme poems manage to sound effortless while maintaining the same rhyme throughout. Here are a few standout pieces:
The monorhyme rhyme scheme is the simplest of all rhyme structures: AAAA. Every line in the stanza or poem follows the same end sound. Unlike alternating rhyme patterns like ABAB or AABB, which offer variety, monorhyme is all about unity and repetition.
This structure can create a smooth, almost hypnotic effect when used effectively. However, the hard part is making surethe poem doesn’t sound forced or predictable. That’s why it’s mostly used in shorter verses or incorporated into freestyle rap, where flow and delivery add an extra layer of complexity.
Want to try writing your own monorhyme poem? Here’s a simple guide to get started:
