Figurative Language in "Fire and Ice"

Imagery – The concepts of fire and ice carry with them deep connotations that, in and of themselves, prompt the recollection of the sensations they embody. For example, fire elicits the feeling of heat and light, but also burning and pain. This particular image is well used by Frost to create a duality with both fire and ice that then draws attention to the nature of the warning he creates.
Symbolism – Symbolism is the key to this poem. Frost very explicitly makes fire a symbol for desire, and ice a symbol for hate. This, coupled with the imagery that these symbols evoke, creates a multidimensional complexity to the poem. Because of the deeper meaning that fire and ice take on, the application and understanding of the poem is altered. While the poem still is interpreted as a warning against these behaviors in the broad scheme of the world, in concordance with the war that was occurring, it also begins to take on a more personal level. Namely, this is due to the personal connection that is shared by the creation of these symbols, with fire and desire, ice and hate. The poem is then applied to one’s everyday life, and is interpreted as a warning against vices of desire and hatred in day to day life, not just in the larger world. Therefore, by making fire and ice a symbol, and forcing the reader to consider their application to the poem and it’s broader warning, this warning is then applied to the reader’s own life, increasing the effectiveness and impact of the poem.
Understatement - One of the most effective tools used by Frost to give this poem it’s essential meaning. Frost says “some say” twice in the first two lines. On the surface, this represents a group of people who are of the opinion of the manner in which the world ends. However, by saying “some” he is minimizing the size of this group, making it seem insignificant, which stands in direct contrast to what Frost is creating on the surface, namely the downfall of humanity. Another, more important example of understatement in the poem is the last line “and would suffice.” This directly contrasts the preceding line, which speaks of the awesome power of hatred and it’s destructive ability. It gives the poem a very abrupt ending, leaving the reader with a sense that the poem has not entirely concluded. This too, like Frost’s other elements, works to make this poem evermore applicable to the reader’s day to day life, prompting true thought as to the meaning of the poem, as per Frost’s intentions.