Final answer:
In Thomas Hardy's poem 'Afterwards', the use of FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE, particularly EUPHEMISM, enhances the meaning and tone of the poem. Euphemism softens the subject of death and contributes to a contemplative and reflective tone. The poem also utilizes imagery to convey themes of transience and decay.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Thomas Hardy's poem 'Afterwards', the use of figurative language, particularly euphemism, enhances the meaning and tone of the poem. Euphemism is the use of a less direct or mild word or phrase to refer to something unpleasant or taboo, such as death. In the poem, the speaker uses euphemistic language to allude to death, referring to it as 'One who shows signs of returning life' and 'One who drafted lies about his death.' These euphemisms soften the harshness of the subject matter and create a contemplative and reflective tone.
The impact of the euphemistic language is twofold. Firstly, it allows the speaker to explore the idea of death in a subtle and nuanced way, avoiding explicitness. This adds depth and complexity to the poem, inviting readers to ponder the deeper implications of mortality. Secondly, the use of euphemism contributes to the overall theme of nostalgia and reflection in the poem. By employing gentle language to discuss death, the speaker evokes a sense of longing for the past and an acknowledgment of the impermanence of life.
The figurative language used in the poem extends beyond euphemism. For example, imagery is employed to convey the passing of time and the themes of transience and decay. The lines 'Nobody is ever missing in their ways' and 'The rambler-alone-forbidden-advance' depict the sense of solitude and the disintegration of familiar paths. This imagery reinforces the overarching theme of reflection and the nostalgia for days gone by.