Metaphor In A Hymn To The Evening Unpacking Sable Curtains

"A Hymn to the Evening," penned by the remarkable Phillis Wheatley, stands as a testament to her poetic prowess and her deep connection to both the natural world and the divine. This poem, rich in imagery and symbolism, invites readers to contemplate the transition from day to night and the spiritual significance of this daily cycle. Within its verses lies a beautiful tapestry of literary devices, including the evocative use of metaphor. To truly appreciate the poem's artistry, it's essential to delve into the lines and discern the metaphorical language that elevates its meaning. This article will explore the metaphorical line in "A Hymn to the Evening" and unpack the layers of meaning embedded within it.

Identifying the Metaphor: "And draws the sable curtains of the night,"

The question at hand directs us to identify the line from "A Hymn to the Evening" that contains a metaphor. Let's examine the options provided:

• A. "Soon as the sun forsook the eastern main"
• B. "And draws the sable curtains of the night,"
• C. "Let placid slumbers sooth each weary mind"
• D. "So shall the labors of the day begin"

The line that undoubtedly employs a metaphor is B: "And draws the sable curtains of the night." To understand why, we must first define what a metaphor is. A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things without using "like" or "as." It asserts that one thing is another, creating a vivid image and deeper understanding.

In this particular line, Wheatley compares the arrival of night to the drawing of curtains. Night, an abstract concept representing darkness and the end of the day, is being likened to tangible curtains. The word "sable," meaning black or dark, further reinforces the connection to the darkness of night. This comparison isn't literal; night doesn't actually have curtains. Instead, the metaphor creates a powerful image in the reader's mind. We can visualize the darkness descending like heavy, dark curtains being drawn across the sky, shutting out the light of day.

Deeper Dive into the Metaphorical Meaning

The metaphor of "sable curtains" is not merely decorative; it carries significant weight within the poem's context. Consider these aspects:

• The Act of Closure: Curtains are typically drawn to signal the end of an activity, a performance, or a day. Similarly, the "sable curtains of the night" mark the close of the day's activities and the beginning of a time for rest and reflection. This aligns with the poem's overall theme of transitioning from the active day to the peaceful night.
• Protection and Shelter: Curtains also provide a sense of privacy, security, and shelter from the outside world. The night, in this metaphorical sense, becomes a protective embrace, shielding us from the harshness and busyness of daylight. This evokes a feeling of comfort and tranquility, preparing the mind for sleep.
• Theatrical Imagery: The use of "curtains" evokes theatrical imagery, suggesting a grand performance or spectacle. The setting of the sun and the arrival of night can be seen as a daily drama played out across the sky, a majestic display of nature's power and beauty. This theatrical element adds a sense of awe and wonder to the poem.
• Religious Connotations: Wheatley's poetry often intertwines with her religious beliefs. The night, in this context, can also symbolize a time for spiritual reflection and communion with God. The "sable curtains" might represent a veil separating the earthly realm from the divine, inviting contemplation of higher powers during the quiet hours of darkness.

By employing the metaphor of "sable curtains," Wheatley elevates the simple act of nightfall to a profound and multi-layered experience. The image resonates with readers on multiple levels, evoking feelings of peace, protection, and spiritual contemplation.

Analyzing Other Options

To further solidify our understanding of the metaphor, let's briefly examine why the other options are not considered metaphors in the same way:

• A. "Soon as the sun forsook the eastern main": This line employs personification, attributing human qualities to the sun by saying it "forsook" the eastern main (the ocean). Personification is distinct from metaphor, as it gives human characteristics to inanimate objects or abstract concepts, rather than directly equating two unlike things.
• C. "Let placid slumbers sooth each weary mind": This line is a plea for peaceful sleep to comfort tired minds. While it contains vivid imagery, it doesn't present a direct comparison between two unlike things. The word "sooth" implies a calming or comforting action, but it's not a metaphorical comparison.
• D. "So shall the labors of the day begin": This line is a simple statement about the cyclical nature of day and night, and the resumption of work after rest. It doesn't contain any metaphorical language.

Phillis Wheatley's Mastery of Language

Phillis Wheatley's use of metaphor in "A Hymn to the Evening" is a testament to her exceptional command of language and her ability to craft evocative imagery. As one of the first African American poets to be published, Wheatley faced significant obstacles in her life. However, she transcended these challenges through her intellect and artistry. Her poems often explore themes of nature, religion, and freedom, reflecting her unique perspective as a woman of color in 18th-century America.

The "sable curtains" metaphor exemplifies Wheatley's skill in weaving together vivid imagery, emotional depth, and spiritual undertones. This line, along with the rest of the poem, showcases her ability to use language not just to describe the world around her, but also to explore the inner world of human experience.

The Enduring Power of Metaphor

Metaphors are powerful tools in literature because they allow writers to convey complex ideas and emotions in a concise and memorable way. They engage the reader's imagination, creating a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject matter.

Wheatley's use of the "sable curtains" metaphor exemplifies this power. By comparing nightfall to the drawing of curtains, she invites the reader to visualize the transition from day to night in a fresh and insightful way. The image is both familiar and profound, resonating with our everyday experiences while also hinting at deeper spiritual meanings.

Exploring Other Metaphors in Literature

The "sable curtains" metaphor is just one example of the many ways in which metaphors can enrich our understanding of literature. Other famous metaphors include:

• "All the world's a stage" (William Shakespeare): This metaphor compares the world to a stage and human beings to actors, highlighting the performative aspect of life.
• "Life is a journey": This common metaphor compares life to a journey, emphasizing the challenges, obstacles, and discoveries we encounter along the way.
• "Time is a thief": This metaphor personifies time as a thief, highlighting its fleeting nature and the way it steals our precious moments.

By studying and appreciating the use of metaphor in literature, we can gain a deeper understanding of the writer's craft and the nuances of language.

Conclusion: The Significance of "Sable Curtains"

In conclusion, the line "And draws the sable curtains of the night" from Phillis Wheatley's "A Hymn to the Evening" stands out as a powerful example of metaphor. It's not merely a description of nightfall; it's an invitation to contemplate the deeper meanings associated with the transition from day to night. The image of "sable curtains" evokes feelings of closure, protection, theatrical grandeur, and spiritual reflection, enriching the poem's overall impact.

Wheatley's masterful use of metaphor is a testament to her literary genius and her ability to connect with readers on multiple levels. This single line, with its rich metaphorical meaning, encapsulates the beauty and depth of her poetic vision. By recognizing and appreciating such literary devices, we can unlock the full potential of poetry and literature to illuminate our understanding of the world and ourselves.