Karl Shapiro's "Auto Wreck"

Paper Summary:

This essay introduces, discusses and analyzes Karl Shapiro's poem, Auto Wreck". More specifically, the paper examines how Shapiro uses metaphors, symbolism and imagery to describe the car crash and, more importantly, the reactions of the "audience" as they view the scene of the crash.

From the Paper:

"Shapiro begins his poem with the use of alliteration and word repetition, "soft silver bell beating, beating" to symbolize the repeated siren sounds. He then quickly shifts into a simile that describes both the scene of the accident and the victim, "And down the dark one ruby flare. Pulsing out red light like an artery." The reds of the lights, the flare and blood pulsing through the body blend into one another. The fast transition from one poetic device to another speeds the readers along with the ambulance."

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