Sound and Sense Theory

Sound and Sense Theory suggests that poetry’s impact comes from both how it sounds and what it means. "Sound" refers to the musical qualities of language—rhyme, rhythm, and phonetic effects—that create mood and memorability. "Sense" relates to the poem’s message, themes, and ideas conveyed through words. Together, they work in harmony: the musicality enhances understanding and emotional response, while the meaning gives depth and insight. This theory emphasizes that effective poetry balances auditory beauty with meaningful content to engage and move the reader.