Both Snakecharmer , by Sylvia Plath and In the Snake Park , by William Plomer show how the poets take advantage of different techniques to illustrate the world of the snake, and draw us into it. Plath using diction and Plomer using imagery, both describe the snake in order to establish a mood for their poems. They then proceed to show the relationships between man and the snake. Plomer applies characterization to achieve this effect, while Plath uses symbolism to do so in a more subtle manner. Plath's use of diction to emphasize the movement of the snake produces a mood of anxiety by suggesting that something evil is stirring.
Alliteration is used to make the sentences flow in the motion of a serpent.
This effect is achieved by weaving the words together fluidly. It is especially effective when the snakecharmer 'pipes water green until green waters waver'. The 'sways', 'coilings' and 'writhings' which occur during the formation of his world create a feeling of restlessness. An image is conjured of a twisted mound of snakes that throbs and churns on a wave of 'green' putrid water. This is repeated at the end when he 'puts up his pipe, and lids his moony eye'.