The poem “Parley” by Rita Dove is a thought-provoking and evocative piece that explores the complex relationship between language and power. Through vivid imagery and poignant language, Dove explores the ways in which language can be used as a tool of both oppression and resistance. The title of the poem, “Parley,” suggests a negotiation or discussion, alluding to the idea of ​​language as a means of communication and exchange. This essay will provide a summary and analysis of Dove's "Parley," examining the themes of language, power, and resistance that are at the heart of the poem. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay “Parley” is a relatively short poem, consisting of only 16 lines. Despite its brevity, the poem is rich in meaning and symbolism. The first stanza sets the scene with the image of a “ship on the horizon,” evoking a feeling of anticipation and uncertainty. This imagery is followed by the phrase “And the wind fell,” which creates a feeling of calm and tranquility. The contrast between the movement of the ship and the calm of the wind sets the stage for the tension and conflict that will unfold in the poem. The second stanza introduces the theme of language, as the speaker describes "the word" that was "brought home." This word is described as "powerful", suggesting that it has significant meaning and influence. The word is then contrasted with "the sea", which is described as "a language/we do not speak". This juxtaposition highlights the power dynamics at play, as the language of the sea is described as mysterious and unknowable. while the word brought home is described as powerful and imposing The third stanza brings the theme of power to the forefront, as described by "the captain" who "brought him out of the hold." word is described as "heavy", suggesting that it carries a weight of authority and control. The captain's actions are described as forceful and imposing, as he "pulled" the message out of the hold. image conveys a sense of dominance and control, highlighting the way in which language can be used as a tool of power. The fourth and final stanza of the poem reveals the word that was brought home: “Parley.” This word, meaning discussion or negotiation, has significant implications in the context of the poem. The speaker describes the word as "a stowaway", suggesting that he was brought aboard the ship without permission or consent. This image conveys a sense of subversion and resistance, as the word "Parley" disrupts the established power dynamic on the ship. Overall, “Parley” explores the ways in which language can be used as a means to assert power and control. The poem's vivid imagery and evocative language convey a sense of tension and conflict, as the word "Parley" disrupts the established order on the ship. Through this exploration of language and power, Dove invites readers to think about how language can be used as a tool of both oppression and resistance. One of the key themes of “Parley” is the idea of ​​resistance. The word "Parley" is depicted as a stowaway, suggesting that he was brought aboard the ship without permission or consent. This image conveys a sense of subversion and defiance, as the word disrupts the established power dynamic on the ship. By describing the word as a free rider, Dove highlights the ways in which language can be used as a means of resistance against oppressive systems of power. The theme of resistance is further emphasized through the contrast between “the word” and “the sea” in the second stanza..