(From Emily Dickinson's "The Moon is Distant from the Sea)
In the Dickinson poem, the moon and the sea are metaphors for
a. uncaring and cold natural forces
b. a strict teacher and a frightened pupil
c. a loved one and the speaker
d. the effect of a rising and falling tide
Can't decide between B and C..
Thanks
http://www.eliteskills.com/analysis_poetry/The_Moon_is_distant_from_the_Sea_by_Emily_Dickinson_analysis.php
Thank you!!
You're welcome. (I hope you chose C!!)
To determine the correct answer, we need to analyze the poem and understand the metaphors being used. In order to do so, let's break down the comparisons made in the poem.
In the first stanza of Emily Dickinson's "The Moon is Distant from the Sea," the poet compares the moon and the sea. The moon is described as distant or far away from the sea. This comparison suggests a sense of separation or distance between two entities, emphasizing their awareness of each other but being unable to physically reach one another.
In the second stanza, the poet goes on to describe how the moon and the sea come together at night. This union is presented as something desired but ultimately fleeting, using phrases like "The Ocean doesn’t care" and "the stars don’t care." This indicates a lack of emotional connection or concern from these natural forces.
Now, let's examine the metaphors in question:
b. a strict teacher and a frightened pupil:
This metaphor doesn't align with the poem because it doesn't address the sense of separation or lack of emotional connection emphasized by the poet. The relationship between a teacher and a pupil implies guidance and a certain level of familiarity, whereas the poem emphasizes distance and indifference.
c. a loved one and the speaker:
This metaphor aligns more closely with the poem. The moon and the sea share a relationship of longing and desire, similar to that of two individuals who love each other. The speaker, in this case, could be seen as the one expressing these emotions towards their loved one (the moon or the sea).
Considering the above analysis, it becomes clear that the correct answer is c. a loved one and the speaker, as it better captures the metaphorical relationship portrayed in the poem.