Analyze the effects of figurative language used in line 1 through 24 in "The Skater of Ghost Lake" by William Rose Benet
In "The Skater of Ghost Lake" by William Rose Benet, the author incorporates several instances of figurative language in lines 1 through 24, which significantly enhance the poem's overall impact. Below is an analysis of some of the main effects of figurative language in these lines:
1. Simile: "He skates like a bird on the wing"
This simile compares the skater's movements to those of a bird, suggesting a sense of grace, swift and effortless motion. It not only highlights the skater's skill but also creates a vivid image in the reader's mind.
2. Metaphor: "That long line burns like a fire."
In this metaphor, "that long line" is compared to fire, emphasizing the intensity, energy, and radiance of the skater's trail on the ice. The metaphor allows the reader to visualize the burning line and conveys the skater's power and passion.
3. Personification: "Pale Sickness fled, for a while forgot"
Personifying "Pale Sickness" strengthens its impact by giving it human-like qualities such as fleeing and being forgotten. This personification portrays the skater as a force capable of temporarily overcoming illness or sorrow, contributing to the uplifting theme of the poem.
4. Hyperbole: "All evil must flinch and cower / At the swift defiance flashed from his heel!"
This hyperbolic statement exaggerates the power and fearlessness of the skater. The use of words such as "all" and "must" suggests absolute dominance over evil. The exaggerated language emphasizes the skater's heroic nature and positions him as a symbol of triumph over adversity.
5. Imagery: "The swift sword-play / The dart and shift"
These lines employ vivid imagery, enabling the reader to visualize the precise and agile movements of the skater. The words "sword-play," "dart," and "shift" suggest a battle-like or dance-like quality to the skating, enhancing the excitement and elegance of the performance.
6. Allusion: "By his side is a flourish of white / De Nerac's great gauntlet of lace"
The mention of "De Nerac's great gauntlet of lace" alludes to the famous French skater Pierre de Coubertin, known for his extravagant costumes. This allusion adds historical and cultural depth to the poem, elevating the skater's skill and placing him in the lineage of renowned skaters.
Overall, the figurative language employed in lines 1 through 24 of "The Skater of Ghost Lake" contributes to the poem's imagery, emotional impact, and theme of overcoming adversity. It paints a vivid picture of the skater's artistry, power, and ability to transcend the limitations of the physical world.