Alliteration is defined as the repetition of the initial letter or sound of a word within a single line (in poetry) or sentence (prose). It can be repeated just twice or more than that. It is a form of figurative language often used in poetry for different effects. In general, alliteration gives a certain rhythm to a poem, or line of a poem, and this is certainly the case in this poem.
In the poem "Paul Revere's Ride" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, we can find multiple examples of alliteration. Here are just a few:
"Ready to ride and spread the alarm"
Here the "r" sound is repeated.
"Wanders and watches with eager ears,"
Here we have the "wa" sound repeated, as well as the "ea" sound.
"The muster of men at the barrack-door,"
In this line the "m" sound is repeated.
"Masses and moving shapes of shade, —"
In this line there are two separate examples of alliteration, that of the "m" and the "sh."
"Struck out by a steed that flies fearless and fleet"
And again we have two instances of alliteration within one line, first the "st" sound and then the "f" sound, which is repeated three times.
More can be found throughout the poem, but here are a few examples.
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