1. A piece of figurative language in stanza one is: "The lake is murky and clouded again this year / again we squint to see the right, / reaching in time-glass across our shore." The author uses the metaphor of a "time-glass" (hourglass) to describe the act of looking across the lake. This contributes to the reader’s understanding by suggesting that time is running out or being measured as they try to see clearly, emphasizing the fleeting nature of their attempts to understand or connect with something just beyond reach.
2. A metaphor found throughout the entire poem is the lake itself, which symbolizes life’s challenges and emotional states. The lake is described as “murky,” “clouded,” and “crystal clear” at different points, mirroring the speaker’s shifting emotions and experiences—confusion, clarity, disappointment, and resilience. This extended metaphor helps the reader understand that life, like the lake, is not static; it changes, reflects inner states, and requires patience and persistence to navigate.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of figurative language in poems worksheet.
