The poem's layout mirrors the shape of wings, with the first and third stanzas being shorter than the second, creating a visual representation of a bird in flight. This visual metaphor reinforces the poem's theme of resurrection and spiritual ascension.
Here's how the metaphor works:
* The wings: The physical shape of the poem symbolizes the wings of a bird taking flight, representing the uplifting power of Easter and the resurrection of Christ.
* The descent and ascent: The shortening and lengthening of the lines mirrors the fall of humanity and the subsequent ascension through Christ's sacrifice.
* The words themselves: The words used in the poem also contribute to the metaphorical meaning. For example, the first stanza speaks of "broken" and "low," while the second stanza speaks of "risen" and "high."
The use of the wings metaphor in "Easter Wings" is an ingenious example of how form and content can be intertwined to create a powerful and evocative poem.