Final answer:
In lines 6-7 of "There But for the Grace" by Wislawa Szymborska, the sound device used is alliteration, where the initial consonant sound is repeated. This repetition creates a rhythmic effect and emphasizes the words, drawing attention to the concept of "grace." In line 16, the sound device employed is consonance, where similar consonant sounds appear in close proximity. This consonance enhances the musicality of the poem and contributes to the poignant ending of the stanza.
Step-by-step explanation:
The poet employs alliteration in lines 6-7 with the repetition of the "g" sound in "grace" and "God." This alliterative effect not only adds a musical quality to the lines but also serves to emphasize the central theme of grace. The rhythmic cadence created by alliteration enhances the impact of the concept, drawing the reader's attention to the significance of grace in the poem's context.
Line 16 features consonance, particularly in the repetition of the "s" sound in "grace" and "grass." This choice of consonance contributes to the poem's overall musicality and serves as a subtle reinforcement of the thematic elements. The soothing and harmonious effect of consonance in this line enhances the emotional resonance of the stanza's conclusion.
In the lines "by a step, a hairsbreadth/by sheer coincidence," the poet combines assonance and consonance. The repetition of the long "e" sound in "sheer" and "coincidence" (assonance) and the repetition of the "s" and "c" sounds (consonance) create a melodic and resonant quality. This combination of sound devices adds a layer of complexity, emphasizing the delicate balance between chance and intention explored in these lines.