Comparing Bradstreet And Edward Taylor

Although metaphors seem to be simple and easily understood, they possess the ability to give extra details about a writers beliefs and opinions. By dissecting language, the simplicity of a metaphor can lead to further intellect in an author and show something at a deeper, more precise level. Analyzing connotations, structure, and relationship leads to the discovery of ideologies and understanding. Spiritual truth is often communicated through the use of common, familiar objects. By the use of a simple rhetorical device, Anne Bradstreet and Edward Taylor effectively communicate their writing style through metaphors, which illustrates their Puritan ideology. To explain her religious thoughts, emotions, and views, Anne Bradstreet connects her

As she analyzes back on her life while her house is engulfed in flames, she thinks, “Didst fix thy hope on mouldring dust the arm of flesh didst make thy trust?” (lines 39-14). Rather than relating her hope to God’s abundant grace, she points it toward “dust”. Bradstreet questions herself and contemplates if she placed her wealth on earth instead of placing her trust in God. Structurally, she compares, “the arm of flesh”(line 40) to God’s trust, emphasizing the antithesis between the two. The arm of flesh explains man, relating to their sinful, imperfect nature. Man is imperfect, but God accepts man for who they are. Bradstreet’s axiological views show how she valued earthy possessions opposed to God’s love. She is appalled that she would put all her worth in her a temporary, crumbling, ruinous house when God provides eternal, gracious love. Because of this, she feels like a failure , no longer worthy of the Lord’s eternal grace. The style of the