Repetition in the Poem "A Legend of the Northland"

Introduction:
The poem "A Legend of the Northland" by Phoebe Cary is a narrative poem that tells the story of a brave and noble hunter named Hiawatha and his quest to find the mystical island of the Northland. The poem incorporates repetition as a literary device to emphasize certain ideas, create rhythm, and enhance the overall impact of the narrative.

Repetition of Phrases:
Throughout the poem, there are several instances of repeated phrases that contribute to the poem's structure and meaning. These repetitions include:

1. "By the shores of Gitche Gumee": This phrase is repeated at the beginning of each stanza, serving as a refrain that sets the scene and creates a sense of familiarity. It also establishes a rhythmic pattern, reinforcing the oral storytelling tradition.

2. "In the land of the Ojibways": This phrase is repeated multiple times, emphasizing the setting of the story and highlighting the cultural context of the legend. It helps to immerse the reader in the Northland's atmosphere and folklore.

3. "Gitche Gumee": This phrase is repeated throughout the poem, referring to Lake Superior. Its repetition adds a melodic quality to the poem and reinforces the importance of the lake as a central element in Hiawatha's journey.

4. "By the shining Big-Sea-Water": This phrase is repeated throughout the poem, describing the majestic beauty of Lake Superior. The repetition emphasizes the significance of the lake in the legend and evokes a sense of awe and admiration.

Effect of Repetition:
The use of repetition in "A Legend of the Northland" serves several purposes:

1. Rhythm and Musicality: The repeated phrases create a rhythmic pattern, enhancing the poem's musicality and making it easier to remember and recite. This rhythmic quality aligns with the oral tradition of storytelling and adds to the overall poetic effect.

2. Emphasis and Reinforcement: The repetition of certain phrases emphasizes their importance in the narrative. It draws attention to key elements such as the setting and the significance of Lake Superior, reinforcing their significance in the legend.

3. Unity and Cohesion: The repetition of phrases like "By the shores of Gitche Gumee" and "In the land of the Ojibways" creates a sense of unity and cohesion throughout the poem. It helps to unify the different stanzas and connect the various events of Hiawatha's journey.

4. Imagery and Symbolism: The repetition of descriptive phrases like "Gitche Gumee" and "By the shining Big-Sea-Water" enhances the imagery and symbolism in the poem. It paints vivid pictures in the reader's mind and adds depth to the Northland's portrayal.

Conclusion:
The poem "A Legend of the Northland" utilizes repetition as a powerful literary device to enhance the narrative's rhythm, emphasize key elements, create unity, and evoke imagery. The repeated phrases contribute to the poem's musicality, reinforce its themes, and add to its overall impact. Through the skillful use of repetition, Phoebe Cary crafts a compelling legend that captivates readers and transports them to the mystical world of the Northland.