Figurative Language In The Laughter Of Women

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Mary-Sherman Willis, in her poem "The Laughter of Women," creates a vivid atmosphere of a foreign city, where the narrator hears the laughter of women in a foreign tongue. Through her use of language, Willis evokes feelings of curiosity, enchantment, and joy. One of the ways in which Willis creates an atmosphere of curiosity is through her use of descriptive language. The narrator hears the women's laughter from over a wall, suggesting that the women are in a private space, and the narrator is an outsider. The language used to describe the women's attire, "perfumed in their hats and their silks," adds to the mystery and fascination of the scene. The flowers and the sun-rinsed air also contribute to the enchanting atmosphere of the city. These descriptions evoke a sense of curiosity in the reader, who wants to know …show more content…

The women's laughter is described as ringing "like bells, oh so witty," creating a joyful and light-hearted atmosphere. The comparison to bells suggests a musical quality to their laughter, adding to the enchanting and delightful feeling of the scene. The simile of bubbles spilling over the bricks creates an image of playful and carefree happiness, which the women are experiencing, even if it's just for a moment. Willis uses this figurative language to transport the reader to the scene and make them feel the joy that the women are experiencing. In addition, Willis uses sensory language to create an atmosphere of enchantment. The sound of the women's laughter surrounds the narrator, falling on her shoulders and hair, and bursting on her cheeks like kisses. This sensory description makes the reader feel as though they are in the scene, experiencing the joy and delight of the women's laughter. The language used to describe the rain, "smacking of drops," also adds to the sensory atmosphere of the poem, making the reader feel the cooling air and the rumble of