A periodic sentence is a complex sentence that presents its main clause at the end, often leading up to it with subordinate clauses or phrases. This structure creates suspense and anticipation, engaging the reader by delaying the main point until the conclusion of the sentence. Periodic sentences can be a powerful tool in an author's style, enhancing the rhythm and flow of their prose while emphasizing particular ideas.
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Periodic sentences often start with introductory phrases or clauses, building up to the main clause at the end, which keeps readers intrigued.
Authors like Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf frequently used periodic sentences to enhance their narrative style and create emphasis on specific points.
The suspense created by periodic sentences can enhance emotional impact, as readers must wait for the resolution of the thought until the end of the sentence.
This type of sentence can vary in length but is typically longer and more complex than simple or loose sentences.
Using periodic sentences effectively requires skillful manipulation of language and structure, showcasing an author's command over syntax.
Review Questions
How do periodic sentences enhance suspense and engagement in a narrative?
Periodic sentences enhance suspense by placing the main idea at the end, requiring readers to navigate through subordinate clauses before reaching the climax of the thought. This structure keeps readers engaged, as they are drawn into the buildup of information leading to the resolution. Authors strategically use this technique to create a more dynamic reading experience, making readers eager to discover the main point.
Compare and contrast periodic sentences with loose sentences in terms of structure and impact on writing style.
Periodic sentences are characterized by their complex structure that delays the main clause until the end, while loose sentences present their main idea at the beginning followed by additional details. This contrast impacts writing style significantly; periodic sentences create suspense and a sense of anticipation, making them ideal for dramatic effect. Loose sentences offer clarity and directness, making them suitable for straightforward communication. Both structures serve distinct purposes in an author’s style.
Evaluate how authors utilize periodic sentences to shape their narrative voice and influence reader perception.
Authors utilize periodic sentences as a stylistic device to shape their narrative voice by manipulating sentence structure to create rhythm and pacing within their writing. By delaying critical information, they can build tension and draw readers deeper into the narrative. This approach not only influences how readers perceive characters and events but also reinforces themes and emotional resonance, allowing authors to leave a lasting impression through careful word choice and syntactic variation.
Related terms
Loose Sentences: A loose sentence is a type of sentence structure where the main idea is presented at the beginning, followed by additional information, making it straightforward and easy to follow.
Subordination refers to the grammatical process of connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses, which is crucial in crafting complex sentences like periodic sentences.
Syntax is the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language, playing a key role in shaping an author's style and tone.