The pattern may be specified by means of either a standard term for the kind of metrical unit (e.g. hexameter) or an encoded representation for the metrical pattern (e.g. +--+-+-+-+-). In either case, the notation used should be documented by a metDecl element within the encodingDesc of the associated header.

Where this attribute is not specified, the metrical pattern for the element concerned is understood to be inherited from its parent.

The pattern may be specified by means of either a standard term for the kind of metrical unit (e.g. hexameter) or an encoded representation for the metrical pattern (e.g. +--+-+-+-+-). In either case, the notation used should be documented by a metDecl element within the encodingDesc of the associated header.

Where this attribute is not specified, the metrical realization for the element concerned is understood to be identical to that specified or implied for the met attribute.

By default, the rhyme scheme is expressed as a string of alphabetic characters each corresponding with a rhyming line. Any non-rhyming lines should be represented by a hyphen or an X. Alternative notations may be defined as for met by use of the metDecl element in the TEI header.

When the default notation is used, it does not make sense to specify this attribute on any unit smaller than a line. Nor does the default notation provide any way to record internal rhyme, or to specify non-conventional rhyming practice. These extensions would require user-defined alternative notations.