The general aim of this study of Gerard Manley Hopkins is to add to the limited amount of knowledge concerning a poet whose influence within the past twenty years has been considerable. A corollary purpose of this paper, therefore, is to investigate and clarify some of the metrical experiments and practices of Hopkins. Critics, touching upon the verse-technique of Hopkins, have been cautious in their approach to his particular experiments in sprung and counterpointed rhythm. Various casual writings upon Hopkins have called attention to the poet\u27s peculiarities of syntax, but the nature of these peculiarities has not been carefully or thoroughly explained. It is hoped that this investigation will contribute to a better understanding of Hopkins\u27 work
