Literary Devices in ‘The West Wind’ by John Masefield
Treasure Chest |class 9 |poem | literary devices |figure of speech
Given below are the literary devices used in “The West Wind” by John Masefield, along with examples from the poem:
1. Personification
Personification is the attribution of human qualities to non-human things. In “The West Wind,” the west wind is given human characteristics, making it a comforting, nurturing presence.
Example:
“Says the warm wind, the west wind, full of birds’ cries.”
Here, the wind is said to “speak” or “say” something, a human trait that emphasizes its active, emotional influence.
Example:
“I’ve a balm for bruised hearts, brother, sleep for aching eyes.”
The west wind offers “balm” (a healing substance) and sleep as though it is an understanding, empathetic figure that provides comfort and healing.
2. Repetition
Repetition involves repeating words or phrases for emphasis, rhythm or effect. In this poem, the repetition of certain lines reinforces the speaker’s yearning and the soothing qualities of the west wind.
Example:
“Will ye not come home, brother, ye have been long away.”
This line is repeated multiple times throughout the poem to emphasize the speaker’s longing for the return to the west land.
Example:
“It’s a fine land, the west land…”
The repetition of “the west land” creates a meditative rhythm and ties the entire poem to the idea of homecoming and peace.
3. Symbolism
Symbols are objects, characters, or events that represent broader concepts. In this poem, Masefield uses nature, seasons and the west wind as symbols for renewal, home and peace.
The West Wind: Symbolizes the passage of time, memory, and a desire to return to a place of comfort. It also symbolizes the rejuvenating force of nature.
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Springtime (April, blossom, daffodils): Represents rebirth and new beginnings, a fresh start after a long period of hardship or struggle.
Green Grass, Apple Orchards, Larks: These elements symbolize life, growth, and harmony in nature, suggesting peace and contentment.
4. Alliteration
Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in a line or phrase. It helps to create a musical rhythm in the poem and enhances the sensory experience.
Example:
“cool green grass”
The repeated “g” sound creates a smooth, flowing rhythm that mirrors the natural, peaceful setting described in the poem.
Example:
“balm for bruised hearts”
The repetition of the “b” sound reinforces the gentle, soothing nature of the west wind.
5. Imagery
Imagery involves vivid descriptions that appeal to the senses, creating mental pictures for the reader. Masefield uses rich imagery throughout the poem to evoke the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.
Visual Imagery:
“The young corn is green, brother, where the rabbits run.”
The image of young green corn and rabbits evokes a lively, peaceful countryside setting.
Auditory Imagery:
“And the thrushes are in song there, fluting from the nest.”
This line uses auditory imagery to bring the sounds of nature to life, with thrushes singing and filling the air with their melody.
7. Metaphor
Metaphors compare two unlike things without using “like” or “as.” The west wind is metaphorically a source of healing and renewal as well as the embodiment of the poet’s longing.
Example:
“It’s song to a man’s soul, brother, fire to a man’s brain,”
The west wind is compared to “song” and “fire,” suggesting that it provides emotional and intellectual stimulation, much like art or inspiration does to a person’s soul.
Example:
“I’ve a balm for bruised hearts…”
The west wind is also compared to “balm,” which is a metaphor for healing and comfort.
These literary devices enhance the poem’s themes and emotional impact. The west wind as a central symbol is made more powerful through personification, metaphor and repetition. The pastoral imagery and natural symbols contribute to a soothing tone, inviting the reader into a peaceful, restorative world.
