1. Metaphor: A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unrelated things, highlighting their similarities. Example: “With bolts of bones, that fetter’d stands” compares the body’s bones to bolts, emphasizing the restrictive nature of the body.
2. Personification: Personification is the attribution of human characteristics to non-human entities. Example: “And, wanting where its spite to try” personifies the body by suggesting it has a spiteful nature.
3. Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of neighboring words or stressed syllables. Example: “But physic yet could never reach” repeats the “p” sound.
4. Repetition: Repetition is the deliberate use of the same word or phrase for emphasis or to create a rhythmic effect. Example: “And ready oft the port to gain, Am shipwreck’d into health again” repeats the word “oft” and creates a rhythmic pattern.
5. Hyperbole: Hyperbole is the use of exaggerated statements or claims for emphasis or dramatic effect. Example: “What but a soul could have the wit, To build me up for sin so fit?” exaggerates the soul’s ability to construct a body perfectly suited for sin.
6. Oxymoron: An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms. Example: “Joy’s cheerful madness does perplex” combines the contrasting ideas of joy and madness.
7. Enjambment: Enjambment occurs when a sentence or phrase continues from one line to the next without a pause or punctuation. It creates a sense of fluidity and uninterrupted flow. Example: “Which knowledge forces me to know, And memory will not forego” continues the thought across two lines.

a dialogue between the body and the soul Summary

The poem’s central idea examines the complex and occasionally tense interaction between the soul and the body, addressing the pains of the body and the soul’s involvement in creating and affecting them. It inspires reflection on the intricacies of human existence, the interaction between our physical and spiritual selves, and the effects of our deeds on our mental and physical health.

A dialogue between the body and the soul Summary