Siren Song Margaret Atwood Analysis

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In Homer's Odyssey, Odysseus and his men encounter singing Sirens. These mythical creatures chant sweet melodious songs, expecting to bewitch the sailors and draw them to their death. On the other hand, Margaret Atwood's poem, "Siren Song", narrates the Siren's attempt of attracting the sailors. However, both authors portray the Sirens differently. They do so by using tone, point of view, and imagery.
Homer applies a mysterious tone to compliment the Sirens eccentric behavior. He utilizes this technique to depict the Sirens as fatal and malignant creatures. For example, as Odysseus navigates through the sea, the Sirens serenade them and sing, "Come closer, famous Odysseus... Never has any sailor passed our shores in his black craft until he has heard the honeyed voices pouring from our lips...". Odysseus and his men were captivated by their songs, yet the mystery perceived from their voices warned them of unprecedented successions. On the contrary, Margaret Atwood exerts a helpless tone. For example, she wrote, "I don't enjoy it here squatting on this island looking picturesque and mythical...". She implements such a tone in order to illustrate the Sirens as impotent and pure creatures. She characterizes them as the victims of the story. …show more content…

Homer, for example, allows the reader to adapt a precarious point of view towards the Sirens. He describes the Sirens with "ravishing voices" as they "burst into their high, thrilling song". Likewise, from the sailor's point of view, they are cautious as they approach the Sirens enclave. Atwood allows her readers to adopt a pitiful point of view. She says,"... will you get me out of this bird suit?". By choosing these words, she interprets the Sirens as prisoners on an island who want to withdrawal from the chains of force and

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