Rita Dove's poem “Parley” is a thought-provoking and evocative piece that delves into the complex relationship between language and power. Through vivid imagery and poignant language, Dove explores the ways in which language can be used as a tool of both oppression and resistance. The title of the poem, “Parley,” suggests a negotiation or discussion, alluding to the idea of language as a means of communication and exchange. This essay will provide a summary and analysis of Dove's “Parley,” examining the themes of language, power, and resistance that are central to the poem. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay “Parley” is a relatively short poem, consisting of just 16 lines. Despite its brevity, the poem is rich in meaning and symbolism. The first verse sets the scene with the image of a “ship on the horizon,” evoking a sense of anticipation and uncertainty. This image is followed by the phrase “And the wind dropped,” which creates a feeling of stillness and stillness. The contrast between the movement of the ship and the calm of the wind sets the stage for the tension and conflict that will develop in the poem. The second stanza introduces the theme of language, as the speaker describes “the word” that has been “brought home.” This word is described as “mighty,” suggesting that it has significant meaning and influence. The word is then contrasted with “the sea,” which is described as “a language/that we do not speak.” This juxtaposition highlights the power dynamics at play, as the language of the sea is portrayed as mysterious and unknowable, while the word brought home is described. as powerful and imposing. The third stanza brings the theme of power to the fore, as the speaker “the captain” who “dragged him out of the hold” is described as “heavy,” suggesting that he carries with him a weight of authority and control. The captain's actions are described as forceful and authoritative, as he "pulls" the word out of the hold. This image conveys a sense of dominance and control, highlighting the ways in which language can be used as a tool candies. The fourth and final stanza of the poem reveals the word that was brought home: “Parliament.” This word, meaning discussion or negotiation, carries significant implications in the context of the poem. The speaker describes the word as “a stowaway,” suggesting that he was brought aboard the ship without permission or consent. This image conveys a sense of subversion and resistance, as the word “Parley” disrupts the power dynamics established on the ship. Overall, “Parley” explores the ways in which language can be used as a means to assert power and control. The poem's vivid imagery and evocative language convey a sense of tension and conflict, as the word “Parley” disrupts the established order on the ship. Through this exploration of language and power, Dove invites readers to consider the ways in which language can be used as a tool of both oppression and resistance. One of the key themes of “Parley” is the idea of resistance. The word "Parley" is depicted as a stowaway, suggesting that he was brought aboard the ship without permission or consent. This image conveys a sense of subversion and challenge, as the word disrupts the power dynamics established on the ship. Describing the word as a stowaway, Dove highlights the ways in which language can be used as a means of resistance against oppressive systems of power. The theme of resistance is further emphasized through the contrast between “the word” and “the sea” in the second stanza. The sea is described as “one language/we do not speak,” conveying a.
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