In music, a "beat" refers to the basic unit of time, the rhythm listeners tap their feet to. It serves as the foundation for a song's tempo and structure, helping to organize the flow of music. Beats can be created by various instruments, such as drums or electronic devices, and are essential in genres like pop, rock, and hip-hop. In a broader context, "beats" can also refer to the recurring patterns in poetry or prose, where the rhythm enhances the emotional impact of the words. This concept is often explored in the works of writers like William Shakespeare and Emily Dickinson, who skillfully use rhythm to engage their readers.