The Atmosphere of the Island and its Sights and Sounds in "The Lake Isle of Innisfree"

Introduction:
"The Lake Isle of Innisfree" is a poem written by W.B. Yeats that vividly describes the speaker's longing for a peaceful and idyllic life on a remote island. The poem creates a serene and tranquil atmosphere through its use of language, particularly in the first two paragraphs.

1. Imagination and Escapism:
The poem begins by evoking a sense of escapism and the power of imagination. The speaker imagines himself standing on the "pavements grey" of a bustling city, overwhelmed by the noise and chaos. This contrast between the urban environment and the island setting immediately sets the stage for a tranquil and serene atmosphere.

2. The Island's Beauty:
The language used to describe the island's sights and sounds further enhances the atmosphere. The speaker describes "the deep heart's core" of the island, suggesting a profound connection to nature. The reference to "peace" and the "purple glow" creates an image of tranquility and beauty.

3. Visual Imagery:
Yeats uses vivid visual imagery to transport the reader to the island. He describes the "honey bee" and the "purple glow" of the island, which appeals to the reader's sense of sight. The use of colors such as "brown" and "green" further enhances the visual imagery, painting a picture of a lush and vibrant landscape.

4. Auditory Imagery:
In addition to visual imagery, the poem also incorporates auditory imagery to create a sense of the island's sounds. The speaker mentions the "cricket sings" and "midnight's all a glimmer", which appeals to the reader's sense of hearing. These sounds contribute to the peaceful and natural atmosphere of the island.

5. Rhythmic Language:
The poem's rhythmic language also adds to the atmosphere. The use of repetition, such as in the phrase "I will arise and go now", creates a musical quality that mimics the sounds of nature. This rhythm, combined with the vivid imagery, helps to transport the reader to the tranquil setting of the island.

Conclusion:
Through the use of language, W.B. Yeats effectively creates an atmosphere of tranquility and beauty in "The Lake Isle of Innisfree". The poem's vivid visual and auditory imagery, along with its rhythmic language, transport the reader to the remote island and its idyllic surroundings. The contrast between the urban environment and the peacefulness of the island further emphasizes the desire for escape and the longing for a simpler, more harmonious existence.