What does Hyperbole mean in a poem?

A hyperbole is a figure of speech that uses exaggeration to create emphasis or humor. It is often used in poetry to create a vivid image or to express strong emotions. For example, in the poem "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe, the speaker uses hyperbole to describe the raven's eyes:

> And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting,

On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;

And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,

And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;

And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor

Shall be lifted—nevermore!

In this passage, the speaker uses hyperbole to exaggerate the size and intensity of the raven's eyes. He says that the raven's eyes are like those of a demon, and that they seem to be dreaming. This exaggeration helps to create a sense of mystery and foreboding, and it also emphasizes the speaker's fear of the raven.

Hyperbole can be a powerful tool for poets, as it can be used to create a variety of effects. It can be used to create humor, to emphasize a point, or to create a sense of drama or suspense. When used effectively, hyperbole can help to make a poem more memorable and impactful.