1. Symbolism:
- Auden uses symbolic imagery and metaphors to represent human suffering and the indifference of nature and the universe to individual tragedies. For example, he compares the drowning boy to "a ragged figurehead," suggesting his insignificance in the vastness of the sea.
2. Lack of Emotional Engagement:
- Auden deliberately avoids using emotionally charged language or descriptions of the drowning boy's suffering. This detachment creates a sense of distance and allows readers to reflect on the larger philosophical questions rather than getting caught up in the emotional details.
3. Juxtaposition of Scenes:
- Auden juxtaposes scenes of human suffering with images of tranquil landscapes and everyday activities. This contrast highlights the disparity between the individual's pain and the indifference of the world around them.
4. Philosophical Reflection:
- The poem concludes with a series of rhetorical questions that invite readers to ponder the nature of suffering, morality, and human agency. These questions prompt readers to move beyond the specific story and engage with the broader philosophical implications of suffering in life.
5. Tone and Diction:
- Auden's use of a calm, matter-of-fact tone and straightforward language further emphasizes the focus on meaning and philosophical exploration rather than emotional or sensational aspects of the story.
By employing these techniques, Auden effectively steers the reader's attention away from the specific narrative and encourages a deeper contemplation of the existential and philosophical dimensions of suffering in life.