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What detail of the myth is suggested in the poem but not in the painting?

Poem excerpt:
"The edge of the sea
concerned
with itself
sweating in the sun
that melted
the wings' wax
unsignificantly
off the coast
there was
a splash quite unnoticed"
—"Landscape with the Fall of Icarus," William Carlos Williams

Options:
A. Icarus falling into the water
B. The sun melting Icarus's wings
C. The sun shining on the water

Answer :

Final answer:

The poem highlights the indifference of the surrounding world to Icarus's tragic fall. It emphasizes how personal suffering can often be overlooked by the activities of life. This reflects a broader commentary on human existence and awareness.


Explanation:

Analyzing Ekphrastic Poetry


The poem "Landscape with the Fall of Icarus" by William Carlos Williams presents a unique perspective on the myth of Icarus, focusing on the mundane activity of the world around him rather than the tragic event of his fall. While the painting may depict Icarus falling into the water, the poem conveys more subtle details that suggest themes of indifference and the insignificance of individual suffering in the grand scheme of life.



  • The detail of Icarus falling and the sun melting his wings serves as a moment of tragedy that goes largely unnoticed by the "concerned" nature of the world, which is focused on itself.

  • "A splash quite unnoticed" emphasizes how the death of Icarus is overshadowed by the ongoing life around him, such as the sea and sun, which illustrate life continuing despite personal tragedy.


This contrast highlights not only the myth itself but also the human tendency to overlook individual struggles when engaged in daily life, thus suggesting a deeper reflection on the nature of human experience and awareness.


Learn more about Ekphrastic Poetry here:

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