As he comes to the realization that he is waiting in line behind a poisonous snake for the water trough, the spondee in line 23 interrupts his thoughts, awakening the reader with "he must be killed," a line that is impossible to read without the authoritative voice the stressed syllables demand. ... " Although differentiating in strength, both speakers held an appreciation for nature that expanded the poem past its conventional meaning, showing a theme of hospitality towards their reptilian guests in a combination of awe and fear. ...

• Word Count: 1710
• Approx Pages: 7