I Do Not Envy

What I do not envy—
That which is mine—
Tat for Tit, but no envy,
I sat in my chair—mine—
That once held my hat, red—
The hat I wore long ago,
Vats of honey from flowers—red.
Oh, what I loved long ago—
A cat in a picture—
a mat that says welcome—
A fat dog in a picture—
A chat that is welcome.

Head rhyme is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely placed words—commonly known as alliteration. It creates rhythm, musicality, and emphasis in poetry and prose. Also called initial rhyme or alliteration, head rhyme occurs when words begin with the same consonant sound. Unlike end rhyme, which focuses on the final syllables, head rhyme draws attention to the start of words.

Example: “Tat for Tit,” “cat,” “mat,” “fat,” “chat” — all share the initial /t/ or /k/ sounds.

It’s used in poetry, advertising, and song lyrics to create a memorable and rhythmic effect.

Mnemonic power: Makes lines easier to remember.

Musicality: Adds a lyrical quality to verse.

Emphasis: Highlights key words or themes.

Unity: Links ideas through sound.

“Tat for Tit,” “That,” “Tit,” “Tat” — playful consonant echo.

“Cat,” “Mat,” “Fat,” “Chat” — a cascade of /k/ and /ch/ sounds.

“Hat,” “Honey,” “Held” — subtle reinforcement of the /h/ sound.

These repetitions create a sonic texture that mirrors the poem’s nostalgic and whimsical tone. The head rhyme isn’t just decorative—it reinforces the emotional rhythm of memory and longing.