You cram these words into mine ears against the stomach of my sense

You cram these words into mine ears against the stomach of my sense

The line "You cram these words into mine ears against the stomach of my sense" is from William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest." In this particular scene, the character Caliban is speaking to his master Prospero, expressing his frustration and anger at being constantly bombarded with Prospero's commands and demands.

Caliban's words convey a sense of being overwhelmed and oppressed by the power dynamics at play in his relationship with Prospero. The image of words being crammed into his ears against the stomach of his sense suggests a violent and forceful imposition of authority and control. Caliban feels as though his own thoughts and feelings are being suffocated and suppressed by the weight of Prospero's words.

This line also highlights the theme of language and communication in "The Tempest." Throughout the play, characters use language as a tool for manipulation, persuasion, and power. Prospero, in particular, wields his knowledge of magic and his command of language to control those around him, including Caliban. Caliban's frustration at having words forced upon him reflects a deeper struggle for autonomy and agency in the face of oppressive authority.

Furthermore, the use of the word "stomach" in this line is significant. The stomach is often associated with digestion and the processing of food, suggesting that Caliban is being forced to internalize and assimilate Prospero's words in a way that is harmful to his own sense of self. The metaphorical violence of cramming words into his ears against his sense speaks to the dehumanizing effects of linguistic and psychological manipulation.

Overall, this line captures the complex power dynamics and themes of control, oppression, and resistance that are central to "The Tempest." Caliban's words serve as a poignant reminder of the ways in which language can be used as a weapon to subjugate and silence those who are marginalized and disempowered.