To what extent does Keats use metaphor to respond to death in ‘Ode to a Nightingale’?

Though the poem is dominated by thoughts of death, of ways to escape life, Keats does not appear to fear it. Rather, the ode’s rich imagery illustrates his acceptance of death as a refuge from the pain and suffering associated with his life. Keats invokes poetry as deaths alternative, as a medium for peace, which is represented by the nightingale within the ode. Poetry is undoubtedly his muse. The dreamland metaphor frees Keats from the chains which tether him in the physical realm.

SD
Answered by Srishti D. English Literature tutor

8198 Views

See similar English Literature A Level tutors

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

Do I need to memorise quotations (critical or from the text studied).


For my coursework, how should I go about comparing two authors?


Are the supernatural elements in Marlowe's Doctor Faustus supposed to be frightening or ridiculous?


“Both Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gastby’ and Joshua Ferris’ ‘Then We Came to the End’ act as criticisms of capitalism.’” Do you agree with the statement?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences