End of line rhymes are overrated…
I’ve said something kind of like this before. We’ve talked on here about how sometimes it’s more important to pick the best word than it is to pick the best rhyming word. But here specifically I’m talking about internal rhymes with in the line and not at the end of each line.
Just like regular end of line rhymes, internal rhymes can be perfect rhymes or slant rhymes. I don’t know about you, but I was listening to the life of a showgirl all weekend and really thinking about songwriting as I was dissecting all of these lyrics.
One of my favorite parts of track four which is Father Figure is the bridge. And specifically the part that I mentioned in this video. Because of the internal rhymes and the alliteration that she has in this line. It makes it so satisfying to hear and so satisfying to sing. And also, it’s just a straight up fucking bar.
what are you guys think? Do you think that end of line rhymes are overrated or am I being overdramatic? Will you try to add more internal rhymes, the next time you write a song? (Because I think I might)
Happy Writing, Creatives! 🩷🩵🧡
#songwriting #songwritingadvice #songwritingtips #taylorswift #thelifeofashowgirl
Internal rhymes often fly under the radar compared to their more famous counterparts—end of line rhymes—but they play a crucial role in crafting vivid, engaging lyrics. Unlike end rhymes that conclude a line, internal rhymes occur within the line itself, weaving together sounds and syllables that captivate listeners on a deeper level. This technique is brilliantly demonstrated in Taylor Swift’s song "Father Figure" from her album The Life of a Showgirl, particularly in the bridge section. For example, consider the lyrics: "Your thoughtless ambition sparked the ignition / On foolish decisions, which led to misguided visions." Here, the internal rhymes of "ignition," "decisions," and "visions," alongside the alliteration with 's' and 'sh' sounds, add a smooth, satisfying flow that makes the lyrics memorable and impactful. These rhymes create a rhythm that’s both enjoyable to listen to and gratifying to sing. Internal rhymes also allow songwriters to be more expressive and precise with their word choices. Often, relying solely on end rhymes limits creativity, forcing the choice of words that rhyme over more meaningful or fitting ones. Incorporating internal rhymes frees lyricists to focus on conveying genuine emotions and complex ideas without sacrificing musicality. The effectiveness of internal rhymes lies in their subtlety and ability to enhance a song’s texture. They can introduce a layered complexity that invites listeners to explore and appreciate the song’s craftsmanship. This technique is not just limited to poetry and songwriting but can also enrich storytelling and spoken word performances. For aspiring songwriters looking to deepen their craft, experimenting with internal rhymes can be a game changer. It encourages more attention to sound patterns, syllabic emphasis, and the interplay between words, resulting in lyrics that resonate strongly and feel natural when performed. In summary, while end rhymes have their place, internal rhymes deserve more recognition for their ability to elevate songwriting. They bring freshness, creativity, and a signature style to music writing—qualities that artists like Taylor Swift expertly incorporate to create songs that stand out and connect emotionally with audiences.
