This line is highly suggestive and open to interpretation, but it seems to point to several themes:
* Hunger and Desperation: The act of licking the plate, especially after a meal, can symbolize a deep hunger, not just for food, but for something else. It could represent a desire for more, a sense of deprivation, or a desperation to hold onto something, even if it's just the faintest memory of a meal.
* Obsessive Behavior: The repetition of the action - licking the pattern - can imply a compulsion, an obsessive behavior that goes beyond simple hunger. It might suggest a deep-seated need for comfort or a way to cope with emotional emptiness.
* Loneliness and Isolation: The imagery of someone alone, meticulously licking their plate, can evoke feelings of loneliness and isolation. It might suggest a lack of connection or a yearning for companionship.
* A Struggle for Control: The act of licking the plate could be interpreted as a desperate attempt to maintain control in a situation where the individual feels powerless. By meticulously consuming every trace of food, they may be trying to assert their agency in a world that feels overwhelming.
Ultimately, the meaning of the line is open to the individual reader's interpretation. However, it is a powerful image that evokes a sense of vulnerability, desperation, and the struggle for connection. It's important to consider the context of the poem and the surrounding lines to gain a more nuanced understanding of the poet's intent.