Is it acceptable to omit pronouns when it's implied elsewhere?

Question

I'm only referring to poetry/lyrics.

Answer 1

Hi there! I answered this question in another post too :)

Yes, in both poetry and song lyrics, it is acceptable to omit pronouns when their referents are implied elsewhere in the text. This is a common stylistic choice that can add brevity and create a sense of immediacy or intimacy in the writing. Omitting pronouns can also contribute to the overall rhythm and flow of the poem or song.

For example, in a song lyric:

Original: "I saw you standing there, and I knew that you were the one who I had been waiting for."

Omitted Pronouns: "Saw you standing there, knew you were the one I had been waiting for."

In this example, the pronouns "I" and "you" are omitted because they are implied by the context, and the revised version maintains clarity and conciseness. However, it's important to strike a balance. Omitting too many pronouns or essential words can make the text confusing or disjointed. So, while it's acceptable to omit pronouns for stylistic purposes, it's essential to ensure that the meaning remains clear to the reader or listener.