Tennyson's Ulysses - Textual analysis

At line 18 Tennyson uses and repeats the word "I" in order to reinforce the idea of existence.

At line 19 he uses the word "arch" in order to underline its significance: a rainbow, the passing of time and also a weapon.

At line 20 the words underline Ulysses' desire to visit the world he hasn't still visited; the reader can understand that Ulysses is curious about what he doesn't know: Tennyson underlines the importance of knowledge.

At line 22 Ulysses makes a reflection about the idea to "make an end": on his point of view to rest and to die are similar.

At line 23 Tennyson underlines the romantic aspect of Ulysses, he compares himself to an object with "rust"; he wants to be useful.

At line 24 there is the repetition of the word "life": the repetition implies something usual.

At line 27 death is referred to the image of eternal silence.

At line 28 the reader understands that Ulysses is still looking for something new.

At line 29 the word "three suns" implies the passing of time.

At line 30 the word "grey" implies something old; it is in opposition with his desire to know something new, "to follow knowledge" (line 31).