Answer: Juxtaposition is present in the poem as it contrasts the instructor's encouraging and open arms with her merciless intentions for the speaker's sake. Oxymoron is also present in the phrase "It is with our skill/We live in what kills us" as it combines the contradictory terms "live" and "kills."
The universal theme of the poem is the idea that sometimes those who appear to be helping us are actually leading us into danger and that we must learn to rely on our own skills and instincts to survive.
The extended metaphor of the poem is the comparison of the deep water to a dangerous situation in life. Three specific examples of components or extensions of this metaphor include the instructor's role as a guide who leads the speaker into the deep end, the speaker's struggle to stay afloat and survive in the water, and the idea that the speaker must rely on their own skills to survive in the water.
The extended metaphor of the dangerous water supports the theme by emphasizing the idea that we must be cautious of those who may lead us into danger and that we must rely on our own skills and instincts to survive. The metaphor also highlights the struggle and uncertainty that comes with navigating difficult situations in life.
The overall mood of the poem is ominous and unsettling, while the tone is critical and cautionary. The poem warns against blindly trusting those who appear to be helping us and emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and caution.
Step-by-step explanation: