The juxtaposition between "full-blown garden flowers" and "late blossoms that have yet to bud" reflect the dynamic between literary works of the past and prospective literary works of the future. Lu Chi implores the reader to let these ancient works stand; the primary reason why this preservation is warranted is because the prime significance of ancient texts is to "breathe life into" the work of subsequent generations. This phrase is reminiscent of the creation scene at the beginning of Genesis in which God breathes life into Adam, which suggests that "the sole endeavor" of past literature is to incite a series of creation which repeatedly derives inspiration from its predecessors.

The main device of this short passage is the metaphor which compares metaphorical devices with swift birds that are evading pursuit from a fowler's bow. This metaphor transitively equates the bird hunter with the writer, suggesting that the writer must actively work to achieve the wit of literary genius. Despite the fact that things have been awaiting the poet's brush for generations, the writer must materialize these creative thoughts which are "quick-winged" and impermanent. It is integral that the writer capitalize on these fleeting moments of inspiration, as the music remains unheard until the poet takes active responsibility in "mustering" them into art.

She seems shocked that Antigone would dare refuse her help, but why would Antigone accept her help? When she asked Ismene to help in the beginning of the play, Ismene refused because she was scared of Creon, but now that the deed is done she tries to take credit for helping Antigone when all she did was let her sister do all the work.

It seems like Ismene is genuinely upset and apologetic for not helping Antigone in the first place. This sounds almost like a final plea, begging her sister to let her be by her side when they both face death together.

Again, Antigone is shown to be the "alpha" sister. She doesn't discuss the issue with Ismene, but rather declares that she will not accept any help from her.

Saying this makes it clear that Ismene is trying to follow Antigone's footsteps, and that Antigone is the "alpha" sister. She is asking permission from Antigone to be on her side, when she should have been there all along.