The Form:
* Free Verse: The poem's lack of traditional rhyme or meter allows for a natural flow of thought and imagery. Pay attention to the rhythm and pauses, as they contribute to the poem's meaning.
* Repetition: Words and phrases like "like" and "the sun" are repeated, emphasizing the central theme of comparison and the relentless nature of time.
The Content:
* Simile: The poem uses similes to connect seemingly disparate things: the sun to a woman, the woman to a "shadow" or "ghost," and even the speaker's life to a "dream."
* Time and Memory: The poem explores the passage of time and the way memories fade. The sun's movement across the sky symbolizes the fleeting nature of life, while the woman represents both the beauty and the transience of memory.
* Loss and Loneliness: There's a sense of loss and longing throughout the poem. The speaker reflects on the "shadow" of the woman he loved, highlighting the pain of separation and the yearning for connection.
Interpretations:
* Love and Memory: Some readers see "Simile" as a meditation on love and the way memories shape our understanding of it. The speaker's reflections on the woman he loved might represent a deep emotional connection that continues to linger even after her absence.
* Passage of Time: Others view the poem as a contemplation of time's relentless march and the inevitable fading of life. The sun's journey across the sky and the speaker's gradual descent into sleep symbolize the passage of time and the ultimate inevitability of death.
* Native American Perspective: Given Momaday's heritage, the poem can also be seen as reflecting Native American perspectives on nature, time, and spirituality. The cyclical nature of the sun and the connection to the natural world might be seen as reflecting a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.
Key Points for Understanding:
* The speaker's voice: Pay attention to the speaker's tone and perspective. Are they wistful, melancholic, or resigned?
* The imagery: Analyze the use of similes and other figurative language to understand how they contribute to the poem's overall meaning.
* The poem's structure: Consider how the poem's form and structure support the ideas being explored.
Ultimately, the best way to understand "Simile" is to engage with it on your own terms. Read the poem carefully, consider different interpretations, and allow yourself to be moved by its beauty and depth.