elizabeth bishop

A detailed Summary of elizabeth bishop

Andrienne Rich once said, "I am an instrument in the shape of a woman trying to translate pulsations into images." Elizabeth Bishop applies Rich's quote in the poem "The Fish." The poem tells about a situation where Bishop catches an unattractive fish. As she studies the fish closer, Bishop notices that the fish has special characteristics. These features slowly carry the fish from an unworthy catch to a great accomplishment. Bishop's use of imagery allows the reader to see a fish that becomes more than just an ordinary catch. By gaining respect from Bishop, the fish becomes a triumph.

With a grunting weight, Bishop reels in a lethargic, old, unpleasant fish. At first glance, Bishop sees no qualities that make the catch worthwhile. With imagery, Bishop is able to assert the idea that the fish is not wanted. The " ...brown skin [hanging] in strips like ancient wall-paper, and its pattern of darker brown like wall-paper..." give the fish an unappealing quality (13). The dull colors and reference to age suggest to the reader that the fish is not special.

Bishop begins to study the fish closely. She pays greater attention to detail. The colors begin to shift from dull to bright. This

change is seen when Bishop depicts the fish's wound:

Bishop begins to appreciate the fish. The dramatic change in colors adds to the idea. The reader interprets Bishop's mood change through the flattery of the fish.

Like many expressions in the poem, Bishop uses color to express her mood. Not only is she able to express mood, but also her colors present a clear theme. As the reader is taken through the accounts of the catch, Bishop transforms from a character who cares little for the fish to one who is able to appreciate simple things. The transformation plays an important part in showing Bishop's central idea. Through seeing more than just an old and ugly fish, the reader learns that some significant lessons come in small packages. Bishop learns it by way of the fish. She realizes the fish has been hooked several times, but the frayed fishing lines mean no one has actually been able to boat him. Bishop, thrilled by this fact, begins to notice small details in everything. The feeling of success creates her perspective.

Some common words found in the essay are:
Elizabeth Bishop, McCabe Bishop, Andrienne Rich, Ms Bishop, respect bishop, fish bishop, bishop fish, bishop looks, catch accomplishment, express mood, fish special, fish fish, fishing lines, dramatic change,

Approximate Word count = 917
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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elizabeth bishop

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