I am Catalina, a character in this book,
With emotional ties to the setting, I can't overlook,
In High Place, my heart finds solace and fear,
Where every corner whispers secrets that are near.
As a "cold embrace" that I can't replace,
It grips me tight, its hold is strong,
I can't help but feel like I don't belong.
Like a "creeping vine" that makes me feel blue,
It twists and turns, takes hold of my mind,
As I uncover secrets that make me feel blind.
As if it's watching me, and will deprive,
Its walls are closing in, it's hard to breathe,
The fear I feel, I can barely sheathe.
As if High Place is the only thing that ties,
My past, my present, my future too,
Without it, I'd be lost, without a clue.
Like when I repeat words, "fear, fear" so crude,
It echoes in my mind, like High Place's call,
As I unravel the secrets, one and all.
As if I'm struggling, and I must confess,
"I can't breathe," I say, with a gasp,
As if High Place's hold, is an eternal grasp.
Questions answered in the poem:
How does the figurative language within the poem convey an important connection between character and setting? Explain each form of figurative language using text evidence for support.
The figurative language in the poem helps the character, Catalina, describe her emotional attachment to the setting of High Place. Metaphor is used to describe the setting as a "cold embrace." Simile is used to show Catalina's fear as a "creeping vine." Personification is used to bring the house alive as if it's watching Catalina. Hyperbole is used to show how deep her attachment is to High Place.
How does the syntax within the poem function and for what purpose? Explain each form of syntax using text evidence for support.
The syntax within the poem is intentionally used to capture the mood of the character, Catalina. Repetition is used to echo the fear that Catalina feels, "fear, fear" which emphasizes her emotional state. A fragment is used to show her distress, "I can't breathe" as if she's struggling to express herself.
How does your use of figurative language and syntax help establish the tone of the poem?
The use of figurative language and syntax helps establish a haunting and emotional tone in the poem. The figurative language shows Catalina's attachment to High Place and her fear of it, while the syntax captures her mood and emotional state. Together, they help establish the tone of the poem.