Bonnie R. answered • 04/23/19
Literary Analysis/Creative Writing; Math and Excellent Test Prep.
The repetition of this line reflects the repetitive nature of the conversation held at "societal get-togethers," as observed by Prufrock. The images in this poem give the reader a sense of the superficiality of these "tea parties," that instead of any real substance, surface appearances are what matter here. These ladies keep talking of Michelangelo...over and over again. They are not speaking of great ideas or endeavors themselves; they are tossing out the name of someone else who achieved greatness, in order to be accepted or seen as "in the know" of such people and/or pursuits. Ironically, although Prufrock sees these shallow performances time after time, his insecurity won't allow him to add anything (though he may have a few "deeper" ideas), fearing what they will say and what they will think, fearing they will tell him he is wrong, or worse: just comment on his declining physical appearance.
