Aphaeresis and Apocope

Aphaeresis: A poetic and linguistic device where a syllable or sound is omitted from the beginning of a word, often to maintain the meter, rhythm, or style of a line. This technique is commonly used in older poetry and song lyrics.
’gainst (for against)
’neath (for beneath)
’tis (for it is)
In poetry, aphaeresis helps compress words to fit a specific metrical pattern or create a more fluid and natural sound. It also contributes to the stylistic tone, often giving the verse an archaic or lyrical quality.

Apocope: A poetic and linguistic device where a syllable or sound is omitted from the end of a word. This technique is often used to maintain the meter, create a smoother flow, or fit a particular stylistic tone in poetry.
eve or even (for evening)
o’er (for over)
th’army (for the army)

In poetry, apocope can also result in the abbreviated word blending with the one following it to avoid a break or awkward pause, known as a hiatus. This device contributes to the rhythm and aesthetic of the poem while reflecting older poetic traditions.

Whisp’ of Time

Th’winds of time, they howl so ’gainst,
Th’night that falls o’er shadow dense.
We seek ’neath skies, th’stars eve gleam,
n’ chase th’dreams that time can’t deem.

’Tis only moments that we share,
’Tis fleeting, like a whisp’ of prayer.
Th’days slip by, so swift n’ bright,
n’ fade away in endless night.

’Neath moonlit shores, o’er waters sigh,
n’ all that’s left is our goodbye.
The winds of time, they call us ‘till,
we heed th’past, yet lose our will.