In lines 1 to 24 of "The Skater of Ghost Lake," William Rose Benet employs vivid imagery and contrasting descriptions to create an eerie and enchanting atmosphere, emphasizing both the cold, dark nature of Ghost Lake and the fleeting beauty of Jeremy and Cecily's skating. The figurative language, including metaphor and alliteration, enhances the tension between the ominous setting and the intimate connection between the characters, suggesting a blend of danger and romance as they glide across the icy expanse.
Use lines 1 to 24 to answer the question In 1–2 sentences, analyze the effects of the figurative language used in lines 1 through 24.
The Skater of Ghost Lake by William Rose Benet (1) Ghost Lake’s a dark lake, a deep lake and cold: (2) Ice black as ebony, frostily scrolled; (3) Far in its shadows a faint sound whirs; (4) Steep stand the sentineled deep, dark firs. (5) A brisk sound, a swift sound, a ring-tinkle-ring; (6) Flit-flit,--a shadow with a stoop and a swing, (7) Flies from the shadow through the crackling cold. (8) Ghost Lake’s a deep lake, a dark lake and old! (9) Leaning and leaning with a stride and a stride, (10) hands locked behind him, scarf blowing wide, (11) Jeremy Randall skates, skates late, (12) Star for a candle, moon for a mate. (13) Black is the clear glass now that he glides, (14) Crisp is the whisper of long lean strides, (15) Swift is his swaying - but pricked ears hark. (16) None comes to Ghost Lake late after dark! (17) Cecily only--yes it is she! (18) Stealing to Ghost Lake, tree after tree, (19) Kneeling in snow by the still lake side, (20) Rising with feet winged, gleaming, to glide. (21) Dust of the ice swirls. Here is his hand. (22) Brilliant his eyes burn. Now, as was planned, (23) Arm across arm twined, laced to his side, (24) Out on the dark lake lightly they glide.
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