English-Before You Were Mine

What literary techniques does Duffy use in the line 'The thought of me doesn't occur / In the ballroom with the thousand eyes'?

Metaphor, hyperbole, and symbolism.

What does 'the thousand eyes' symbolize in Duffy's work?

Attention and surveillance.

What does the speaker's absence in the line suggest?

An emotional gap between past and present.

What does the metaphor of 'a thousand eyes' represent?

It represents the people watching her mother dance, highlighting her youthful allure and popularity.

What feeling does the phrase 'the thought of me doesn't occur' evoke?

It creates a bittersweet feeling, as the speaker realizes she wasn't a thought in her mother's mind during her time of freedom.

What emotions are stirred by the recognition of the mother's freedom?

The emotions stirred are admiration and quiet sadness.

What does the phrase 'a thousand eyes' suggest about the mother?

It suggests that the mother is being watched, admired, or desired, highlighting her youthful power and charm.

How does the absence of the daughter affect the interpretation of the mother's moment in the ballroom?

The absence of the daughter amplifies her feeling of disconnection from who her mother once was.

What technique is used in the phrase 'I wanted the bold girl winking in Portobello'?

Descriptive language, first-person voice, and nostalgia.

What does the verb 'wanted' indicate in the phrase 'I wanted the bold girl winking in Portobello'?

Desire and loss.

What does 'winking' represent in the context of the phrase 'I wanted the bold girl winking in Portobello'?

Flirtation, confidence, and carefree charm.

Explain the Effect of the technique in "I wanted the bold girl winking in Portobello."

The speaker's use of "I wanted" reveals a yearning not just for her mother, but for a connection with that specific, lively version of her—the bold, young woman untouched by the responsibilities of motherhood. It hints at a complex emotional mix of admiration and regret.

What does 'winking' suggest about the mother?

'Winking' suggests that the mother once had a fun, daring streak.

How is 'winking' described in terms of attitude?

'Winking' is described as cheeky and rebellious.

Zoom in on "bold"

"Bold" also reinforces this sense of a woman who was unafraid to express herself.

What is the main theme of the poem 'Before You Were Mine'?

The poem reflects on the complex relationship between a mother and daughter, exploring how motherhood changes a woman's identity.

What does the speaker in 'Before You Were Mine' admire about her mother?

The speaker admires her mother's vibrant past.

What feelings does the speaker express in 'Before You Were Mine' regarding her mother?

The speaker expresses a sense of loss and longing for the version of her mother that existed before she became 'mum.'

What themes does the poem 'Before You Were Mine' explore?

Time, memory, and the sacrifices of motherhood.

What does the speaker recognize about her existence in 'Before You Were Mine'?

Her existence may have marked the end of her mother's freedom and fun.

What tension is present in 'Before You Were Mine'?

The tension between love and guilt, admiration and grief.

How does becoming a parent affect personal identity according to 'Before You Were Mine'?

It reshapes personal identity forever.