The theme of the poem is that when we use our imagination while reading anything is possible, even travel to distant lands. The first clue that reveals this poem is about traveling through literature lies within its title. A frigate is a U.S. warship used mainly for escorting. The clever comparison of a frigate and a book set the tone and create excitement about where we will go. It is also this comparison that allows us to compare the necessary physical means required to take us on our adventure.
The first thing that is noticed is the use of figurative language. The figurative language used in this writing is referred to as simile. A simile is a phrase that compares two different things. In lines 3 and 4 “nor any coursers like a page… of prancing poetry” we find the most obvious use of simile when comparing a horse to pages in a book. The other use of simile used in the poem is when Emily says, “There is no frigate like a book” as she compares the U.S. warship to a book.