The passage from "Kew Gardens" by Virginia Woolf employs personification to enhance the atmosphere and setting of the garden amidst the bustling city. The historical context, characterized by the presence of modern technology like motor omnibuses and aeroplanes, contributes to this effect.
One specific piece of evidence illustrating this is: “and in the drone of the aeroplane the voice of the summer sky murmured its fierce soul.” This line personifies the summer sky, giving it a "voice" that murmurs, which contrasts sharply with the bustling, mechanical sounds of the aeroplane. This interaction highlights the tension between the natural beauty of the garden and the intrusive noise of modern machinery, which reflects the historical setting of early 20th-century urban life.
Additionally, the passage states: “But there was no silence; all the time the motor omnibuses were turning their wheels and changing their gear; like a vast nest of Chinese boxes all of wrought steel turning ceaselessly one within another the city murmured.” Here, Woolf uses personification again, describing the city as a “vast nest” that “murmured,” reinforcing the idea that the urban environment is alive and constantly in motion. The imagery of "Chinese boxes" further emphasizes the complexity and interconnectedness of city life during this period.
In summary, these examples show how the historical setting enriches the personification used in the passage. The vibrant life of the garden is contrasted with and influenced by the modern city, enhancing the reader's understanding of the characters' experiences and the interplay between nature and technology.