The Dreamof the Rood uses alliteration rather thanrhyme; it is divided into half-lines (witha pause, or caesura, in the middle) thatvary between short rhythmic sections andlonger hypermetrical sections (with moresyllables).
I was excited when I saw these poetic techniques for the first time. There are so many techniques, such as alliteration, half-lines, and caesura. I also think the people who identified these techniques in such old poems and explained them to us are really impressive.
All angels of God beheld it,Fair through future ages; ’twas no criminal’s cross indeed
The cross is no longer seen as an instrument of execution. It's transformed into a symbol of salvation and glory. As I grew up in a church, I heard this several times before. While not until I thought about it again did I realize what a brilliant contrast it was.
Ever may that youth besad of mood, grievous the thought of his heart; may he likewise be forced to wear ablithe air and also care in his breast, the affliction of constant sorrows.
It seems she really hates him.
I make this song of my deep sadness, of my own lot
Writing down your current feelings is a great way to express oneself.
Care is renewed in him who must needs sendvery often his weary mind over the frozen waves. And thus I cannot think why inthis world my mind becomes not overcast when I consider all the life of earls, howof a sudden they have given up hall, courageous retainers.
When later generations listen to the stories told by their predecessors, only those who truly experienced it can truly understand.