What is a caesura in poetic terms?

A caesura is indeed best defined as a dramatic pause in a poem. This pause can occur within a line of poetry, and it serves to create a sense of rhythm and can emphasize a particular idea or emotion. The use of a caesura allows the poet to inject a moment of contemplation or break, adding depth to the reading experience.

In poetry, this technique can be represented by punctuation such as commas, dashes, or periods, but it can also be implied by the natural rhythm of spoken language. By breaking the flow of the verse, a caesura can heighten the impact of the words that follow or precede it, creating a more engaging and thought-provoking piece.