The following is an excerpt from the book A Complete Guide to Urban Legends by Ivor Branek.
RUINOUS RHYMES
Some urban legends use rhymes to great effect. Repeated on playgrounds, at sleepovers, or in front of a mirror, these short, rhythmic verses can help transform a simple tale into mainstream folklore. Their basic structure makes them easy to remember and pass orally from person to person, while their repetitive nature tends to resemble nursery rhymes. This creates a striking contrast between the innocence of childhood and the often unsettling subject matter of the legends themselves.
The very act of reciting these rhymes can feel ceremonial, giving participants the impression that they are performing a ritual rather than simply telling a story. For certain urban legends, the rhyme serves as a catalyst, whether to summon a ghost, trigger a curse, or invite a sinister presence.
Ultimately, rhymes serve as functional storytelling devices. They preserve oral tradition, heighten suspense, and encourage participation. By combining simple language and rhythmic repetition, they can help urban legends maintain a powerful foothold in popular culture, ensuring that these tales continue to be retold from one generation to the next.
Danger Zone One. Story by Midnight. Art by Salaiix.
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