Question

Identify details that Wylie uses to idealize the eastern shore landscape in parts 1-3 of the poem. What expectations do these details create for readers

Answer 1

Wild Peaches by Elinor Wylie

The line “We’ll swim in milk and honey till we drown” depicts an abundance of supply of food or about prosperity in general. On the other hand, the line “The spring begins before the winter’s over” suggests an ideal weather where winter is short-lived and fair weather is always enjoyed. Finally, the line “We shall live well — we shall live very well” promises a good and comfortable life. Thus, readers expect that life at the Eastern Shore is everybody’s dream life: complete, perfect and ideal.