Iron-hearted masters
The iron-hearted masters symbolize the proponents of slavery. The iron-heartedness implies that the masters do not sympathize with the black people because according to them, black people are objects that can be purchased and sold off like any other commodities. Indeed, the iron-hearted masters symbolize the proponents of slavery. Such iron-heartedness implies that the masters do not sympathize with the black people because according to them, black people are objects that can be purchased and sold off like any other commodities.
Gold
The gold symbolizes the commoditization of human life; the speaker was exchanged for meagre gold. The use of gold in slave trade reduces the worth of human life.
Scourges
The scourges symbolize the physical torment that the slaves are subjected by their masters. Their masters whip them, thus inflicting physical injury on them.
Fetters
The fetters are symbolic of the lack of freedom. Once the black people are sold as slaves, their freedom is limited because they are owned by their masters. They live according to the instructions of their masters; thus they cannot enjoy their right to self-determination.
Billows
The billows are symbolic of the slaves’ suffering. The black people are subject to misery because of their complexion. The use of the term billows early in the poem hints that the life of a black person is filled with difficulties.
Chain
The chain clearly symbolizes enslavement, since a chained person cannot move freely because the chain restrains free movement.
