Arts & Culture
The Use of Iambic Pentameter in Shakespearean Sonnets
Quick fact
Iambic pentameter closely mirrors the natural rhythm of spoken English, which is why Shakespeare's lines often feel both artful and conversational.
Why this is interesting
You know the sound of a Shakespeare sonnet—that smooth, almost hypnotic rhythm. Why does it feel so natural and powerful? It's all about a specific pattern called iambic pentameter.