In poetry, what is a caesura?

A caesura refers to a natural pause or break within a line of poetry, often created by punctuation or a change in rhythm. This technique can add emphasis to certain words or phrases, enhance the overall flow of the poem, and create a dramatic effect. By inserting a pause, poets can manipulate the pacing and mood, allowing readers to reflect on the meaning or significance of what has been expressed. This construction is instrumental in shaping the poem's emotional resonance and making certain lines stand out.

The other choices do not accurately define a caesura; they describe different aspects of poetic form and devices. A rhyme scheme focuses on the pattern of rhyming words. A metrical foot refers to the measured unit of rhythm in poetry, while symbolism relates to the use of symbols to convey deeper meanings. Each of these elements serves distinct purposes in poetry, separate from the concept of a caesura.