Re: Perhaps some help

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On 9/29/09, Tffy wrote:
> I need help finding litery devices in the poem Deliverance
> From Another Sore Fit by Anne Bradstreet.

I do not see any particular literary device here - other
than the design of the argument of the poem:

The argument of the poem should first be considered in
two parts: the first three stanzas describe the physical and
spiritual distress of the speaker and the relief God has
given her. The last four stanzas recite the speaker's thanks
for that relief.

The poem moves from a description of earthly ills to
that of heavenly praise - the speaker anticipates an
afterlife in which she will be with God and will continue to
praise Him.

In stanza three, the speaker notes her physical
improvement - God's work in her - and her intention to praise
God for that benefit.

Each stanza should be examined for its moment: for
example, in stanza four, God's "bounty" is expressed in His
modification of trials ("Even for His mercies in His rod,
Where pity most of all I see.")

In the last stanza, the speaker asks not for further
physical or even personal spiritual benefit; she asks merely
for the ability to praise God both in this life and in the
next - surely an ultimate in prayer. God's instruction in
the first stanza ("Live") here is realized in life and
afterlife praise of Him. This is "Deliverance".

L. Swilley
 

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