Problem
Analyze the poem "Sink Your Fingers into the Darkness of my Fur" by Ellen Bass (found below). In the analysis, you should identity at least THREE different poetic devices (literary devices) being used in the poem and write a paragraph long discussion for each literary device explaining what you think the poet is using the devices in order to accomplish. In other words, explain how the use of these devices (diction, imagery, figurative language, irony, symbolism, rhyme, etc.) relates to an important idea within the poem. This section will be graded on content only, not composition.
"Sink Your Fingers into the Darkness of my Fur" by Ellen Bass
Up until this sore minute, you could turn the key, pivot away.
But mine is the only medicine now
wherever you go or follow.
The past is so far away, but it flickers,
then cleaves the night. The bones
of the past splinter between our teeth.
This is our life, love. Why did I think
it would be anything less than too much
of everything? I know you remember that cheap motel
on the coast where we drank red wine,
the sea flashing its gold scales as sun
soaked our skin. You said, This must be
what people mean when they say
I could die now. Now
we're so much closer
to death than we were then. Who isn't crushed,
stubbed out beneath a clumsy heel?
Who hasn't stood at the open window,
sleepless, for the solace of the damp air?
I had to get old to carry both buckets
yoked on my shoulders. Sweet
and bitter waters I drink from.
Let me know you, ox you.
I want your scent in my hair.
I want your jokes.
Hang your kisses on all my branches, please.
Sink your fingers into the darkness of my fur.