Introduction

In Lesson Seven of the poem "Ages" by Edmond Clarence Stedman, the poet explores the different stages of human life and the emotions associated with each age. Throughout the poem, Stedman employs various poetic devices to enhance the meaning and impact of his words. These devices include imagery, alliteration, simile, metaphor, personification, and parallelism.

Poetic devices in Lesson Seven of "Ages"

1. Imagery: Stedman skillfully uses vivid imagery to paint a picture in the reader's mind and evoke emotions. For example, he describes "the prime of manhood's strength" as "a rushing, roaring tide," creating a powerful visual representation of youthful vigor.

2. Alliteration: The poet uses alliteration to create musicality and rhythm in his verses. For instance, in the line "And the grave grows wider still," the repetition of the "g" sound emphasizes the somber tone and adds a lyrical quality to the poem.

3. Simile: Stedman employs similes to make comparisons and enhance the reader's understanding. In Lesson Seven, he compares the passing of time to "the dark waves rolling by," emphasizing the relentless and unstoppable nature of time.

4. Metaphor: The poet uses metaphors to convey deeper meanings and create powerful imagery. For example, when he describes old age as "a desert drear and wide," he metaphorically suggests that old age can be a lonely and desolate experience.

5. Personification: Stedman personifies time, referring to it as "the hoary-headed sexton" who tolls the funeral bell. This personification gives time a human-like quality and adds a sense of gravity to its passage.

6. Parallelism: The poet employs parallelism to create a rhythmic structure and emphasize certain ideas. For instance, in the lines "But the heart, the heart is lonely, / Lonely and will not rest," the repetition of the word "lonely" and the parallel structure reinforce the theme of solitude and yearning.

Conclusion

In Lesson Seven of "Ages," Edmond Clarence Stedman effectively employs a range of poetic devices such as imagery, alliteration, simile, metaphor, personification, and parallelism. These devices enhance the emotional impact of the poem and help convey the themes of time's passage and the various stages of life. Through his masterful use of language, Stedman invites readers to reflect on the transient nature of existence and the emotions that accompany each age.

Simile consonance Alliteration Anaphora MetaphorHyperbole Personification Repetition