Metaphor: The most prominent device is the extended metaphor of the poem's title. The world being compared to an apple is not just a simple comparison; it carries symbolic weight throughout the poem. The apple, depending on its context, can represent:
* Temptation: This connects to the original story of Adam and Eve, suggesting the world can be seductive and lead to downfall.
* Fragility: The apple's thin skin and delicate nature evoke the fragility of life and existence.
* The cycle of life: From a seed to a fruit, the apple represents the cyclical nature of life, growth, and decay.
Imagery: Neruda uses vivid imagery to create a strong sensory experience for the reader. Examples include:
* "The world is an apple, a red, a green apple" - Appealing to sight.
* "My heart, a wild bird, wants to break out" - Evoking the feeling of confinement and yearning for freedom.
* "The night is a cup full of stars" - Creating a sense of wonder and the vastness of the universe.
Personification: Neruda gives human qualities to inanimate objects, deepening their meaning and making them more relatable. For instance, the apple is described as "red" and "green," a human-like attribute, as if the world itself has a color.
Symbolism: Beyond the apple, other symbols are present:
* The bird: Represents freedom, longing, and a yearning for escape.
* The night: Represents darkness, mystery, and the unknown.
* The stars: Represent hope, guidance, and the vastness of existence.
Repetition: The repetition of "the world is an apple" emphasizes the poem's central theme and reinforces the metaphor's impact.
Alliteration: The use of words with similar sounds, like "red, a green apple," enhances the poem's musicality and rhythm.
Enjambment: The lines often run on into the next, creating a sense of fluidity and continuity, mirroring the flow of life itself.
Overall: Neruda's "The World Is an Apple" is a powerful and evocative poem that uses a variety of literary devices to explore themes of life, death, desire, and the human condition. By blending imagery, metaphor, and symbolism, Neruda crafts a memorable and impactful piece that resonates with readers on a deeper level.