In the poem “Afterwards,” Hardy uses figurative language, including euphemism, to develop meaning and tone. What is the meaning

Answer:

A euphemism refers to the practice of using a less direct term or phrase to replace a word or phrase that may be deemed too severe or blunt when discussing something uncomfortable or distressing. In this context, ‘afterwards’ serves as a euphemism for mortality. Each stanza illustrates the speaker's demise in different seasonal or temporal settings. The first stanza reflects on passing away in May during spring, while the second discusses death occurring in the autumn season. The third stanza contemplates dying on a summer’s eve, whereas the fourth stanzas focus on death during a winter night. The fifth stanza addresses the deceased person's funeral. Mortality can be a difficult subject to confront, yet this poem frames it within the natural world and its various seasons. Through the use of metaphors and personification, the poem seeks to relate this heavy subject to its readers, allowing them to recognize the inherent beauty in death and alleviating some of the associated fear.

In his poem "Afterwards," Hardy employs numerous euphemisms to discuss death, deliberately avoiding terms like die, dead, or death.

Instead, he refers to concepts like: "If I pass during..." Here, the word "pass" substitutes for "die." Additionally, he uses the lengthy phrase "When the Present has latched its postern behind my tremulous stay" which essentially conveys "When the present is behind me" or "When I become part of the past."

The use of these euphemisms creates a soothing, tranquil atmosphere for the reader. If he frequently mentioned terms like "die" and "death" throughout the poem, it would disrupt its dreamlike quality.

By employing expressions like "afterward" and various euphemisms, Hardy can examine death without confronting it directly. This approach raises questions about the actions of the rest of the world