One aspect of language that helps "The Colonel" poem by Carolyn Forché get its message across is the use of vivid and visceral imagery. Forché uses graphic descriptions of the scene she witnessed during the poem's central event, such as the Colonel's collection of human ears and his casual disregard for the value of human life, to convey the horror and brutality of the situation.
Through her use of sensory language, Forché is able to transport the reader to the moment of the event and evoke a sense of disgust and outrage at what they witness. The use of visceral imagery helps to drive home the poem's message about the dehumanizing effects of war and violence and the importance of bearing witness to the suffering of others.
Furthermore, Forché's use of plain and direct language, without the use of flowery language or complicated syntax, reinforces the poem's message and makes it more accessible to a wider audience. It helps to convey the sense of urgency and moral imperative that underlies the poem's message.