Author’s Note: Here is an example of how to use Microsoft commenting to identify and explain the purpose of a variety of figurative language and imagery. I explained the many forms of literary devices in Langston Hughes' poem "Mother to Son," and then I analyzed their impact on the tone and message.
Analysis: The tone within the first 7 lines is one of hopelessness, sadness, and defeat. The metaphors “tacks,” “splinters,” and “boards torn up” make it seem like life will always be a struggle filled with hard times and pain. However, the last 13 lines begin to have a tone of hope, courage, and inspiration. The rhythm in the mother’s voice in lines 10-12 make it seem like she’s a tough woman who wants her son to be strong, too. She uses “set down on the steps” as a metaphor to encourage him to never give up, no matter how big his mistakes may be. The use of this imagery really make the “mother” in this piece seem strong, bold, and caring; the reader can tell that she has struggled through a lot when it comes to money, environments, and providing for her family. However, her “survivor” status really impacts the importance of the lesson expressed (to never give up). Without the imagery, the reader wouldn’t know anything about the speaker, and the lesson would not be as powerful.
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