Poem: Blow Blow by Shakespeare

 Literary devices of this poem

 

1. Personification

The winter wind is given human characteristics, described as having a "tooth" and "breath." This emphasizes the harshness of nature while contrasting it with human betrayal.

Example: "Blow, blow, thou winter wind, / Thou art not so unkind / As man's ingratitude."

2.  Antithesis/Contrast 

The poet contrasts the physical harshness of the wind and sky with the emotional pain caused by human ingratitude and forgetfulness.

Example: "Thy tooth is not so keen, / Because thou art not seen."

3. Alliteration

Repetition of consonant sounds adds a musical quality to the poem.

Example: "Freeze, freeze, thou bitter sky" (repetition of "f" and "b" sounds).

4. Imagery

Vivid descriptions create a sensory experience, helping the reader visualize and feel the cold wind and bitter sky.

Example: "Though thou the waters warp" (evoking the image of freezing water).

5. Symbolism

The green holly symbolizes endurance and resilience despite life's difficulties, reinforcing the theme of finding joy amidst harshness.

Example: "Heigh-ho! sing, heigh-ho! unto the green holly."

6. Repetition

Key phrases and ideas are repeated to emphasize the theme of disillusionment with human relationships.

Example: "Most friendship is feigning, most loving mere folly."

7. Metaphor

The poet uses metaphors like "thy tooth is not so keen" to liken the wind's sharpness to the emotional sting of ingratitude.

8. Rhyme and Rhythm

The poem follows a rhyming pattern (AABCCB), contributing to its lyrical, song-like quality. This aligns with its function as a song within the play.

9. Irony

The poet suggests that nature, despite its harshness, is kinder than humans. This ironic observation critiques human behavior.

10. Tone

The tone is melancholic and reflective, yet it also carries a touch of resignation and acceptance, particularly in the refrain: "This life is most jolly."

Rhyme Scheme: 

Stanza 1:

Blow, blow, thou winter wind, (A)

Thou art not so unkind (A)

As man's ingratitude; (B)

Thy tooth is not so keen, (C)

Because thou art not seen, (C)

Although thy breath be rude. (B)

Stanza 2:

Freeze, freeze, thou bitter sky, (A)

That dost not bite so nigh (A)

As benefits forgot: (B)

Though thou the waters warp, (C)

Thy sting is not so sharp (C)

As friend remembered not. (B)