Final answer:
The questions at the beginning of a poem serve to engage the reader, introduce conflict or thematic elements, and hint at the underlying messages about character beliefs, in this case, reflecting on Downs's views of Icarus. These questions can reveal motivations, prompt deep engagement and thoughtful reflection, and influence the rhythm and pacing of the poem.
Step-by-step explanation:
The questions in the first couple of lines of a poem function as a means to engage the reader's curiosity and set the thematic stage for the poem. By asking these questions, the speaker highlights aspects of the main character's beliefs, in this case, possibly Icarus, as well as the thematic questions the poem will explore. These questions often introduce conflict, set tone, or provide direction for the textual analysis and personal reflection the reader may undergo. For instance, if the questions reflect on Downs's beliefs about Icarus, they likely probe the nature of ambition and consequence, key themes in the myth of Icarus.
Questions within a poem may serve to reveal character motivation, question societal norms, or comment on universal truths. Their purpose can be multifaceted, drawing from the reader a deeper engagement with the text and prompting a thoughtful reflection that extends beyond the narrative of the poem itself. In a more technical sense, such questions can also influence the poem's structure, affecting its rhythm and pacing.