Question

which statement best describes the rhythm of \song of myself\?
○ the poem is completely without rhythm or cadence.
○ an underlying consistent rhythm is present, but the lines mask it.
○ the rhythm is very similar to the rhythm of everyday speech.
○ some stanzas have a definite rhyme scheme, while others do not.

Explanation:

"Song of Myself" by Walt Whitman is known for its free - verse style. Free - verse poetry does not follow traditional metrical patterns or rhyme schemes. Instead, its rhythm often mimics the natural rhythm of ordinary, everyday speech. The first option is incorrect as the poem does have a rhythm (even if it's not traditional). The second option is wrong because there is no underlying consistent traditional rhythm masked by the lines. The fourth option is incorrect as the poem does not use stanzas with definite rhyme schemes; it is free - verse.

Answer:

C. The rhythm is very similar to the rhythm of everyday speech.