Read the lines from "The Song of the Wandering Aengus."

And when white moths were on the wing,

And moth-like stars were flickering out,

I dropped the berry in a stream

And caught a little silver trout.

What impact does the adjective "moth-like" have on the tone of these lines?

The Song of the Wandering Aengus

Responses

It helps project a gentle tone.
It helps project a gentle tone.

It helps project a dark tone.
It helps project a dark tone.

It helps project a humorous tone.
It helps project a humorous tone.

It helps project an unsettling tone.

1 answer

The adjective "moth-like" helps project a gentle tone. The imagery of "white moths" and "moth-like stars" evokes a delicate and ethereal quality, suggesting a serene and dreamy atmosphere. This gentle imagery aligns with the overall mood of the poem, enhancing its lyrical and nostalgic elements.