In poetry, what can the use of enjambment achieve?

The use of enjambment in poetry refers to the continuation of a sentence or thought beyond the end of a line or stanza without a pause. This technique enhances the rhythm and flow of thought, pushing the reader seamlessly from one line to the next. By avoiding a break at the end of a line, the poet can create a sense of urgency or movement, allowing ideas to unfold more naturally. This can also lead to a more dynamic reading experience, as the reader is compelled to move quickly through the text to fully grasp the complete meaning of the lines.

In contrast, the other options focus on effects that are not characteristic of enjambment. While a pause at the end of a line is a trait of end-stopped lines, enjambment specifically counters that effect. Additionally, while enjambment can contribute to a poem's structure, its primary function is not to add complexity but to maintain fluidity in thought and emotion. Finally, although enjambment can emphasize ideas, its primary role is not to emphasize a closing idea of a stanza but rather to bridge thoughts across lines, fostering continuity.