Final answer:
The poem's contemplation of preparation for death and the associated irony reflects the unexpected solitude in the moment of passing. The complex interplay of cowardice and courage speaks to the struggle with grief. The changing voice, tone, and settings within the stanzas evoke various emotional responses and contribute to the poem's depth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Exploring the thematic elements of death and the associated preparatory actions of the speaker and those around her involves an examination of the poem's second and third stanzas. In these stanzas, the individuals prepare for death with a sense of solemnity and respect, possibly creating a serene environment that might allow the dying person to pass away peacefully. They expect to find a room filled with a calm or spiritual presence to soothe the last moments of life. However, there is the irony of a surprising discovery that subverts their expectations, contributing a twist that emphasizes the inevitable loneliness in death despite their preparations.
Discussing the final stanza's reference to the narrator finding her way 'by cowardice or courage...back to this scene,' we interpret the notions of cowardice and courage in the context of facing or avoiding deep emotional turmoil. If through cowardice, the narrator may be avoiding the full weight of grief and loss; if through courage, she might be confronting these emotions head-on.
Further interpretation of a poem requires attention to changes in the speaking voice, rhyme pattern, and the tone set out in the stanzas. These changes serve to engage the reader, invoking inquiry and introspection. They help to convey shifts in emotion and perspective as the narrative progresses, deepening the connection between the speaker and the audience. Additionally, understanding the role of specific settings, such as the kitchen scene or the condition of the aforementioned room, is crucial for teasing out the happier or darker nuances of the poem's mood and theme, as well as symbols of the lifecycle such as 'death and blight.'