Chorus:
_Imagery of Light and Abundance:_
- "The golden flowers of Colonus that feed so well the gentle nightingales"
- "Bacchus' rich dark ivy"
The chorus' imagery in this stanza is characterized by bright, radiant, and abundant elements. The golden flowers of Colonus evoke a warm, prosperous landscape, while the lush, dark ivy associated with Bacchus suggests fertility, intoxication, and divine inspiration.
_Tone:_
The tone created by the chorus' imagery is uplifting, optimistic, and celebratory. It paints a vibrant, idyllic picture of Colonus, emphasizing its beauty and bounty. This tone suggests a sense of reverence, awe, and gratitude for the blessings that the land provides.
Leader:
_Imagery of Darkness and Distress:_
- "The sharp rocks of a place with a hard name to say"
- "The hostile crash of the sea breaking on its jagged shores"
- "The relentless fury of the sea on the headlands"
In contrast, the leader's imagery is dark, harsh, and foreboding. The sharp rocks and the violently crashing sea convey danger, turmoil, and an unwelcoming environment. The persistent fury of the sea adds to the sense of relentless struggle and distress.
_Tone:_
The tone created by the leader's imagery is somber, ominous, and pessimistic. It suggests a place fraught with hardship and suffering. The imagery reflects the characters' physical and emotional state as they face the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead.
By using contrasting imagery, the chorus and leader establish distinct tones in strophe 1. The chorus' imagery celebrates the beauty and abundance of Colonus, while the leader's imagery foreshadows the difficulties and perils that the characters will encounter. This contrast sets the stage for the unfolding drama and creates a sense of tension and anticipation for what is to come.