Read the stanza. Then, answer the questions.
A free bird leaps
on the back of the wind
and floats downstream
till the current ends
and dips his wing
in the orange sun rays
and dares to claim the sky.
–“Caged Bird,”
Maya Angelou
What is the denotation of the word floats?
What is the connotation of the word floats?
The denotation of the word "floats" is the action of staying on or near the surface of a liquid or in the air.
The connotation of the word "floats" in this context implies freedom, lightness, and ease. It suggests a sense of carefree movement and a lack of restrictions or constraints.
The denotation of the word "floats" in this stanza means to remain or move steadily on the surface of a liquid without sinking.
The connotation of the word "floats" in this stanza suggests a sense of freedom, weightlessness, and effortless movement, as if the bird is gracefully gliding or soaring through the air. It conveys a positive and liberating feeling.
To determine the denotation and connotation of the word "floats" in the given stanza, we need to understand how to analyze word meanings.
1. Denotation: The denotation refers to the literal or dictionary definition of a word.
To find the denotation of the word "floats," you can consult a dictionary. According to Merriam-Webster, "floats" can mean "to rest on or near the surface of a liquid without sinking." In the context of the stanza, it suggests that the bird is moving effortlessly on the wind and water.
2. Connotation: Connotation refers to the emotions, associations, and cultural implications that a word carries beyond its literal definition.
To understand the connotation of the word "floats," we need to consider the imagery and tone established in the stanza. In this poem by Maya Angelou, the use of language like "leaps," "current ends," "dips his wing," "orange sun rays," and "dares to claim the sky" creates a sense of freedom, joy, and liberation. Therefore, the connotation of the word "floats" in this context is positive, suggesting a light, effortless, and serene movement.
To summarize:
- Denotation of "floats" in this context: To rest on or near the surface of a liquid without sinking.
- Connotation of "floats" in this context: Positive, suggesting freedom, joy, and effortless movement.