Mary Oliver Crossing The Swamp Analysis

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In Mary Oliver's poem crossing the swamp, Oliver describes the journey of crossing the swamp, however, a deeper understanding through metaphoric work is shown. The speaker's relationship with the swamp is challenging but loving, revealing how despite the challenges in life, one can still grow. Readers are shown, through the use of structure, the challenges and feelings of going through the swamp. Gooey, sticky mud and the struggle of walking through it are visualized through a wave like structure. The waves represent a person moving forward with hefty and large steps. Oliver also incorporates enjambment in her poem to demonstrate a never ending journey. By avoiding the use of periods at the end of lines, we are show that the struggle of crossing

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