The personification in the lines from "Columbus" affects the poem by suggesting impending violence and creating a sense of growing dread in the piece. Here's why:
1. The description of the sea as "mad" and portraying it as showing its teeth, curling its lip, and lying in wait with lifted teeth as if to bite, evokes a sense of danger and aggression. This imagery implies that something ominous is lurking beneath the surface, adding a layer of tension to the poem.
2. By attributing human-like qualities to the sea, such as anger and the intent to harm, the personification intensifies the atmosphere of the poem. It sets a tone of foreboding and unease, hinting at the challenges and threats the sailors may face on their journey.
3. The use of personification in this context not only helps to vividly depict the sea but also creates a sense of mystery and unpredictability. It engages the reader's imagination and heightens the emotional impact of the poem, drawing them into the sailors' perilous voyage.
Overall, the personification in these lines enhances the poem by infusing it with a sense of imminent danger and building a mood of suspense and apprehension that contributes to the overall impact of the work.