Essay Questions

What tones are applied to the theme of death in the poem?

The central theme of this poem is death. The poem has a melancholic tone which adds to this theme. The poet talks about the death of his sister with a heavy heart. However, he also says that she now rests and is in peace.

What is the significance of flowers in the poem?

Flowers in general symbolize fertility and life, and there is a stark contrast between this life and the dead sister. The daisies growing near where she is buried are ironic, as this contrast is overt. However, in the use of the lily, this contrast is more subtle. The poet describes the sister's "Lily-like" face, indicating that she was beautiful. Lily in this case may symbolize life as well as purity.

What is the significance of the color white in the poem?

White has dual connotations. It may symbolize purity, innocence and beauty of the sister. The poet describes his sister as the paragon of beauty and innocence, and this idea is further conveyed through the color white. It may also symbolize death and peace. Traditionally, white symbolizes peace and the poet also mentions peace in the poem.