Question

Read this poem excerpt. Identify examples of alliteration and onomatopoeia and what they mean in the poem.

I heard only his babbling,
but not the wise words,
the meanings of which
were like the warbling of birds.

Answer 1

In the given poem excerpt, there are examples of both alliteration and onomatopoeia. Let's identify them and discuss their meanings in the context of the poem.

Alliteration:
1. "babbling" and "but" - The repetition of the "b" sound in these words creates alliteration. It adds a rhythmic quality to the line and emphasizes the contrast between the speaker hearing only meaningless babbling and missing out on the wise words.
Meaning: The alliteration highlights the speaker's frustration or disappointment in not being able to comprehend the wise words.

Onomatopoeia:
1. "warbling" - The word "warbling" is an example of onomatopoeia, as it imitates the sound made by birds. The poet uses this word to describe the meanings of the wise words.
Meaning: By using onomatopoeia, the poet creates a vivid sensory image of the meanings of the wise words, comparing them to the melodic and musical sounds produced by birds. It suggests that the meanings of the wise words are beautiful, but elusive or hard to grasp, just like the ethereal and unpredictable warbling of birds.