Look We Have Coming to Dover! - Nagra

Contemporary poetry

What is the main message of the poem?

Satirises British xenophobia and nationalism while celebrating immigration as hopeful, energetic and transformative

Why is the reference to Dover Beach important?

It is subverted - instead of despair, Nagra presents excitement, hope and opportunity in modern Britain

What does “Stowed in the sea to invade” suggest?

Immigrants are portrayed as illegal and secretive, but also ironically reflect Britain’s own history of invasion/empire

How is British nationalism mocked?

Through phrases like “lording the ministered waves,” exaggerating British superiority and imperial pride

What is the effect of the “unEnglish” language?

Shows a non-native speaker playfully experimenting with English; reflects cultural mixing and identity

What does “Swarms of us” imply?

Reflects xenophobic/tabloid views of immigrants as a threatening mass or “plague”

What does “grafting” suggest?

Hard work - challenges stereotypes that immigrants are lazy

What is the significance of “banking on the miracle of the sun”?

symbolises hope, new life and opportunity in Britain

Why is “passport us to life” important?

suggests Britain offers a new beginning, despite the irony of illegal entry

What does the final image of celebration (“charged glasses”) show?

Immigrants’ excitement and optimism, but also satirically hints at stereotypes about exploiting resources