In the last stanza of "The Cumberland," the metaphor comparing air to a prayer for the living or a song for the dead illuminates the high costs of the battle. This figurative language reflects the gravity of the situation faced by the sailors, emphasizing their hopes and fears as they confront the imminent dangers of war. The metaphor serves to convey the somber and reflective mood, suggesting that the very atmosphere around them is charged with the weight of those who have fallen and the prayers for those who are still alive. This use of metaphor effectively deepens the emotional impact of the stanza, highlighting the themes of loss, hope, and the ongoing struggle of battle.
The Cumberland by Henry Wadsworth Longtellow At anchor in Hampton Roads we lay, On board of the Cumberland, sloop-of-war; And at times from the fortress across the bay The alarum of drums swept past, Or a bugle blast From the camp on the shore. 1 of 7 Question Use the passage from “The Cumberland” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow to answer the question. Analyze the effect of the figurative language used in the last stanza. (1 point) Responses The simile comparing the day to a prayer shows how the sailors hoped that none would die on this singular day in the war. The simile comparing the day to a prayer shows how the sailors hoped that none would die on this singular day in the war. The personification giving the morning human characteristics draws attention to the losses from the battle. The personification giving the morning human characteristics draws attention to the losses from the battle. The metaphor comparing air to a prayer for the living or a song for the dead illuminates the high costs of the battle. The metaphor comparing air to a prayer for the living or a song for the dead illuminates the high costs of the battle. The metaphor comparing the sun to the flying flag shows how the sailors hoped for victory.
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