Question

Write a 150 word analysis that answers the following question- Analyze the ways in which cummings uses hyphenation and line breaks in “in Just-” to create a sense of overlapping time. A minimum of one (1) Figurative/Connotative Device found in the work should be mentioned. Include a minimum of one (1) quote from the work with author name/page number reference in parentheses following the quote.

Answer 1

The poem "In Just-" is deliciously auditory and visual. Even the title becomes part of the game: using the hyphenation, the poet connects the title to the first line so that the reader goes running out into the spring day with the children without pausing to think about the title.   Employing spacing and run-on words, the poem visually takes the reader.

"in Just-" encompasses everything we love about spring (even puddles for the children). Children are outdoors playing games, people are whistling and happy, people are dancing, and it's time for carnivals. Children are often a subject of Cummings' poetry. In some poems, he writes about kids. In others, he writes as a kid. Perhaps it is because it's something everyone can relate to. Or, maybe, it's because it's something he wishes he could go back to.

This poem is written in dada with added spaces and line breaks. He does it to add tempo and rhythm changes while being innovative and seen as charasmatic.