The imagery in "The Hummingbird," such as "a resonance of emerald" and "a rush of cochineal," captures the vivid colors and swift movement of the bird's flight, supporting a literal interpretation of its beauty and agility. Figuratively, this description evokes a sense of fleetingness and transience, reflecting the ephemeral nature of life and moments of joy, as suggested by phrases like "a route of evanescence."
The Hummingbird
by Emily Dickinson
A route of evanescence
With a revolving wheel;
A resonance of emerald,
A rush of cochineal;
And every blossom on the bush
Adjusts its tumbled head, —
The mail from Tunis, probably,
An easy morning's ride.
"The Hummingbird" by Emily Dickinson
Question
Use the lines to answer the question.
In 1–2 sentences, analyze how the imagery used to describe the flight of the hummingbirds supports both literal and figurative interpretations.
(2 points)
1 answer