Read "The Cricket Sang" by Emily Dickinson.

The cricket sang,
And set the sun,
And workmen finished, one by one,
Their seam the day upon.
The low grass loaded with the dew,
The twilight stood as strangers do
With hat in hand, polite and new,
To stay as if, or go.
A vastness, as a neighbor, came,—
A wisdom without face or name,
A peace, as hemispheres at home,—
And so the night became.

In 3-5 sentences, give an example of figurative language from the poem and identify the type of figurative language being used. Next, explain how the poet's use of figurative language added meaning to the poem.

An example of figurative language from the poem is the metaphor of the twilight standing "as strangers do/With hat in hand, polite and new". This metaphor is used to compare the twilight to a polite stranger, suggesting that the twilight is a welcomed guest. The poet's use of figurative language adds a sense of warmth and hospitality to the poem, creating a peaceful atmosphere. This helps to emphasize the idea of the night being a time of rest and relaxation.

That first one is a simile, not a metaphor.

One example of figurative language in the poem is "The twilight stood as strangers do." This is a simile because it directly compares the twilight to strangers. The use of this figurative language adds depth and adds a sense of unfamiliarity to the scene. It evokes a feeling of tension and uncertainty, emphasizing the transitional time between day and night and creating a sense of unease or anticipation. The use of figurative language in this case helps to enhance the atmosphere and mood of the poem.

One example of figurative language in the poem is the line "The twilight stood as strangers do." Here, the poet uses a simile to compare the twilight to strangers. This comparison helps convey the sense of unfamiliarity and detachment the poet feels towards the twilight. It adds to the overall theme of solitude and introspection by creating a vivid image of the twilight standing like strangers, further emphasizing the poet's sense of separation and isolation. Using the simile provides a deeper emotional impact and helps the reader connect with the poet's feelings.