Final answer:
The imagery in "The Black Snake" poem contributes to a theme that beauty exists in the natural world, even in elements that we might fear, like snakes. It emphasizes that beauty is subjective and universal, encouraging the reader to find it in unexpected places.
Step-by-step explanation:
The poem "The Black Snake" uses imagery and comparisons to develop a theme that suggests there is beauty in elements we may typically fear or dismiss, such as snakes. The text draws a parallel between the motion of a snake across a lawn and the beauty that can be perceived in its movements, likening it to a 'wave' with 'its silver gone,' which can evoke an image of graceful and rhythmic motion. Additionally, the poem encourages readers to consider the concept of beauty being subjective and capable of being found even in things that may initially appear harmful or scary, much like pollution can be seen as beautiful in its own way. This challenges the reader to reconsider their preconceptions and find beauty in the unexpected.
The line 'black snake! black snake!' with its use of exclamation points, conveys excitement rather than fear, adding to the theme that these creatures are not to be feared but appreciated. Furthermore, by comparing the people in the poem to animals and bugs, the text suggests a kinship with nature, indicating that there is a natural beauty and affinity that exists between humans and other living beings, regardless of the form they take.