Verse 15:
> **"The little one sleeps in its cradle, I lift the latch, I peer in the dark,
> I see its small hands, its little face, its eyes closed, its mouth shut."**
Metaphor: In these lines, the speaker uses the act of peering into the baby's cradle as a metaphor for the act of exploring and understanding the world.
Explanation:
* Literal Meaning: The speaker is physically looking at a sleeping baby.
* Figurative Meaning: The act of peering into the darkness of the cradle represents the human desire to explore the unknown and the mysteries of life.
* Connection: The baby, with its innocence and vulnerability, represents the unexplored potential and wonder that exists in the world.
Overall Effect: By using this metaphor, Whitman conveys a sense of awe and curiosity, highlighting the profound beauty and mystery found in the simplest of things. The speaker is not simply observing a sleeping child, but seeking deeper meaning and understanding in the world around them.