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Which lines from the poem "Sonnet in Primary Colors" by Rita Dove provide an example of alliteration?

A. "among parrots, in the stern petticoats of the peasant, / who painted herself a present-"

B. "wildflowers entwining the plaster corset / her spine resides in, that flaming pillar-"

C. "Lenin and Marx and Stalin arrayed at the footstead / And rose to her easel the hundred"

Answer :

Final answer:

In "Sonnet in Primary Colors," Rita Dove employs alliteration notably in the phrases "who painted herself a present" and "wildflowers entwining." Alliteration enhances the poem's rhythm and emphasizes imagery through repeated consonant sounds at the beginning of words. Analyzing these instances helps appreciate Dove's artistic use of language.


Explanation:

Identifying Alliteration in Rita Dove's Poem

In Rita Dove's "Sonnet in Primary Colors," alliteration can be found in the phrase "who painted herself a present" from the line "among parrots, in the stern petticoats of the peasant, / who painted herself a present-". Here, the repetition of the initial sound p in "painted" and "present" is a clear example of alliteration.

Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words and is used effectively throughout the poem to create rhythm and emphasize certain images. For instance, in the line "wildflowers entwining the plaster corset / her spine resides in, that flaming pillar-", the repetition of the initial w sound in "wildflowers" also serves as an example.

Another example of alliteration occurs in the context of the line "Lenin and Marx and Stalin arrayed at the footstead / And rose to her easel the hundred...". While alliteration is less apparent here, it is essential to note how Dove intersperses these sounds throughout her lines, crafting a textured soundscape that enhances the imagery of the poem.

This use of sound mirrors the physicality and vibrant color in Dove's imagery, showcasing her adeptness at word choice that is both meaningful and musically engaging.


Learn more about alliteration in poetry here:

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