Final answer:
Analyzing the connotations and associations of words in poetry like "make more dead," "a recent killing," "listen," and "pushed," helps uncover deeper figurative meanings, set the tone, and provides insight into the poem's themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Considering the connotations, representations, and associations of specific words in poetry is crucial to understanding the figurative meaning and facilitating interpretation. Each word carries not just a literal definition, but also an emotional, cultural, or associative weight that contributes to the overall meaning of the poem.
For instance, the phrase "make more dead" implies a deepening of death beyond its physical state, suggesting a metaphysical or emotional extension. "a recent killing" conveys a fresh and potentially violent death, providing immediacy and evocativeness to the imagery. The word "listen" might engage readers, prompting a pause to 'hear' beyond what's spoken, thus tapping into sensory experience. Lastly, "pushed" can evoke a sense of force or unwilling motivation, revealing tension and movement in the poem.
Through the analysis of these words, the reader begins to understand the layered meanings poets intend to convey. The choice of diction not only establishes the tone but also offers insight into the themes and deeper messages within the poetic text.