Easter Wings : Literary devices
Easter Wings is a notable literary work by George Herbert. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Easter Wings.
Literary devices
Figures of Speech
Simile
A simile is a comparison between two things using the words “like” or “as.”
Example:
“As larks, harmoniously,”
Here, the speaker compares himself to a lark (a bird) using “as.” Just like a lark sings and flies joyfully, the speaker wants to rise from his sin and suffering, and sing about God’s glory.
Metaphor
A metaphor is a direct comparison without using “like” or “as.”
Example:
“Imp my wing on thine,”
The speaker compares his life and soul to a bird’s wing. By joining his “wing” (life) to God’s “wing” (power), he will rise higher.
Apostrophe
An apostrophe is when the speaker talks directly to someone who is not present or to something that cannot reply.
Example:
“Lord, who createdst man…”
“O let me rise…”
Here, the speaker is directly talking to God, like in a prayer. God is not physically present, but the poet speaks to Him as if He is listening. This is a clear example of an apostrophe.
Symbols
Larks: Larks are birds that often symbolize a new beginning and joy. In this poem, the speaker wants to fly like a lark, away from sin and suffering. He wants to rise happily with God. Larks are also songbirds. So, the lark becomes a symbol in this poem. It symbolizes that the speaker wants to fly away from his sin and suffering. He also wants to sing praises to God.
Wings and Flight: Wings and flight symbolize rising above pain and sin. The shape of the poem itself looks like wings. The speaker wants to join his “wing” with God’s wing. It means he wants to live with God’s strength and guidance. Through God, he hopes to fly above all suffering and find spiritual joy.