Final answer:
The phrase 'languish away' means to decline or diminish gradually over time, reflecting a sense of helplessness and the destructive effects of poverty.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase languish away, as used in the context of the provided text, refers to a gradual decline or weakening over time. In Paragraph 3, it depicts the man's diminishing property and affection toward his children due to poverty. The man's flock, representing his property and possibly his love for his children, seems to disappear naturally, likened to how snow melts before the sun. The use of this phrase indicates both a sense of helplessness against an unstoppable force and the deep, detrimental impact of poverty on both material possessions and personal relationships.