Homeland; one's native country.

Walls; often used symbolically to represent barriers or divisions.

Consonant rhyme; rhyme in which the final consonants and vowels of the stressed syllables match.

A four-line stanza in a poem.

A three-line stanza in a poem.

A line of verse with eleven syllables.

Metaphor; a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as'.

Enumeration; a list of words, phrases, or clauses.

Symbol; an object or idea that represents something else.

Hyperbaton; inversion of the normal order of words, especially for rhetorical effect.

Seize the day; a Latin phrase urging one to make the most of the present time.

Remember death; a Latin phrase reminding one of the inevitability of death.

Introspection; the examination or observation of one's own mental and emotional processes.

Consonant rhyme, used to enhance the musicality of the verses.

Four-line stanzas, providing a structured framework for the poet's thoughts.

Three-line stanzas, used for contrast or unity within the poem.

Eleven-syllable lines, creating a steady rhythm and flow.

Metaphor; used to create vivid imagery and convey deeper meanings by comparing different ideas or objects.

Enumeration; listing of items to create a sense of abundance and detail.

Symbol; objects or ideas with deeper meanings beyond their literal interpretation.

Inversion of word order to create poetic effects, emphasizing certain words or phrases.

Seize the day!

Remember death!

A period of flourishing arts and literature, political and religious conflicts, economic growth, and the rise of the Spanish Empire (16th-17th centuries).

Complex and extravagant artistic styles, influenced the poem's intricate wordplay, metaphors, and focus on the human condition and the fleeting nature of life.

They symbolize both physical and emotional barriers, evoking feelings of longing and nostalgia.

The poem reflects the decline of the Spanish Empire, political unrest, and power struggles.

His complex style, exploring themes of human nature, morality, and social critique in the Spanish Baroque movement.

Social inequality and the excesses of the wealthy are key themes. He often critiqued the materialism and moral decay of his society.