What does the word despair mean in Ozymandias?

In Percy Bysshe Shelley's "Ozymandias," the word "despair" doesn't appear explicitly. However, the poem's themes of vanity, power, and the inevitable decline of empires contribute to an overall sense of despair for the once-mighty Ozymandias.

Here's how the poem evokes despair:

* The shattered statue: The broken and crumbling statue symbolizes the decay of Ozymandias's power and the fleeting nature of human ambition.

* "Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!": This inscription, although mockingly ironic, suggests that even the most powerful rulers are destined to face the same fate – oblivion. The sculptor's inclusion of this phrase points to the inevitable despair of the fleeting nature of power.

* The desolate setting: The "lone and level sands" surrounding the statue create a feeling of emptiness and isolation, further emphasizing the despair of Ozymandias's legacy.

While the poem doesn't directly use the word "despair," it is an underlying theme and is effectively conveyed through the imagery and language. It evokes a sense of despair not only for the fallen king but also for the human condition in general, highlighting the futility of striving for lasting power in the face of time's relentless march.