How does the development of the central conflict in the poem "O Captain! my Captain!" contribute to the overall meaning of the work?
A.
The central conflict is irrelevant to the poem's overall meaning.
B.
The conflict is resolved quickly, diminishing its impact on the poem.
C.
The development of the conflict deepens the emotional impact of the poem.
D.
The poem's meaning is solely determined by external factors, not the central conflict.
C. The development of the conflict deepens the emotional impact of the poem.
In "O Captain! my Captain!" by Walt Whitman, the central conflict revolves around the death of Abraham Lincoln, who is symbolically represented as the captain of the ship in the poem. As the speaker mourns the loss of their beloved leader, the development of this conflict intensifies the emotions of grief, loss, and sorrow throughout the poem. This conflict ultimately contributes to the overall meaning of the work, highlighting themes of sacrifice, leadership, and the profound impact of loss.