Hints about Bishop's poem "In the Waiting Room"

Keep in mind our analysis of Bishop's poem "First Death in Nova Scotia." The speaker of the poem is a small child and she is making many observations about her physical surroundings. Bishop frequently uses the repetition of imagery (colors, especially) to set the tone/mood of her poems.

Though this entire poem takes place in the waiting room the small child embarks on a journey.

If you are not familiar with the term epiphany, you may find it helpful to know more about what it means, specifically as a literary term.

Here is a quick definition:
Epiphany: 1. A Christian feast celebrating the manifestation of the divine nature of Jesus to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi. 2. A revelatory manifestation of a divine being. 3. A sudden manifestation of the essence or meaning of something. 4. A comprehension or perception of reality by means of a sudden intuitive realization.

Remember, if you feel confused, ask questions--in class, via email, during my office hours or as a post on this blog.

Good luck and enjoy.