Imagery: Soto paints a vivid picture of the setting and the characters' emotions through strong imagery. For example, the "cold, hard" wind and the "icy" sidewalk contrast with the warmth of the oranges, symbolizing the harsh realities of poverty and the love offered by the father. The "bright orange" fruit itself acts as a symbol of hope and joy.
Symbolism: The oranges are the central symbol in the poem, representing love, generosity, and a small act of kindness. They contrast with the "cold" world the speaker and his brother inhabit, representing a brief moment of warmth and connection. The "rough, red hands" of the father symbolize his hard work and his love for his children, despite his limited resources.
Simile: The simile "like a bird's" describes the way the father moves, suggesting a sense of fragility and vulnerability, which contrasts with his strength and love.
Metaphor: The "cold, hard" wind and the "icy" sidewalk act as metaphors for the harsh realities of poverty and the lack of warmth in their lives.
Theme of Poverty: Soto subtly highlights the theme of poverty through the details of their meager life: the "rough, red hands," the "cracked sidewalk," and the lack of money for buying the oranges.
Theme of Love and Sacrifice: The poem emphasizes the father's love for his children, despite his own struggles. He sacrifices his own desire for the oranges to bring joy to his sons.
Simple Language and Tone: Soto uses simple language and a conversational tone to create a sense of authenticity and relatability. This reinforces the poem's theme of everyday struggles and the power of small acts of love.
Structure: The poem uses free verse, allowing for a natural flow of language and thoughts. The short lines and simple structure contribute to the poem's straightforward and impactful delivery.
Overall, "Oranges" is a powerful poem that uses these poetic elements to create a memorable and moving portrayal of love, sacrifice, and the simple beauty of everyday moments.