Poetry
-A pun/play on word
-manhunt is an organised search for a criminal and in this case its the wife’s search for the man she knew and her relentless, yet tender, exploration of his inner trauma which leads to a newfound understanding of him.
The manhunt is a contemporary poem.
Originally aired as a part of channel 4 documentary, forgotten hero’s: The Not Dead.
The poem is read by Laura, the wife of Eddi Beddoes, who is the subject of the poem
he served as a peace-keeper in Bosnia before being discharged due to injury and depression.
Armitage wrote the poem after interviewing veteran’s returning from war and as a means of exploring the psychological impact on those who survived intense trauma
could reflect similar with the speaker as they haven't experienced the trauma but they are both spectators in the life of those who have suffered.
May reflect a human body
may reflect an hour glass to show how progress just takes time.
the poems couplet long stanzas have varying length.
In the beginning, the couplet rhymes, perhaps reflecting the couples harmony when they first reunited.
but the rhyme beak down making the poem feel disjointed and conveys the theme of brokenness.
May reflect their struggle to reconnect and how she will have to learn who her husband is now.
or the increasingly disjointed nature of their relationship
Each couplet introduces a different injury and the reader explores the body and mind of the soldier alongside his wife, experiencing the process at the same time.
The use of enjambment mimics the way she traces the injury that runs continuously across his body and explores the damage done
demonstrates the slow progress she is making
First rhyming couplet could be the start of a traditional love poem.
Echoes the first stages of the relationship suggesting the couples are reconnecting.
The alliteration and verb expresses her tenderness and caution in how she approaches him.
the repeated structure of two verbs in each stanza conveys the idea that she takes an active part in helping the soldier get better.
Extended metaphor
Has found the ‘source’ of the river meaning she is close to finding the main cause
A double entendre
the bullet only ‘grazed’ past his heart
but it left emotional grazes behind
metaphor comparing the bullet to a foetus emphasizes that his experiences are now a part of him.
could also hint that being injured is as life changing as having a kid
could also suggest he is like a child unable to say what he what hurts like a child cant speak but they cry. As he cant say the wife takes it upon her to explore him to find his injuries and piece him together similarly like a mother trying to help their child to get them to stop crying and suffering from pain.
refers to the tension and stress his memories cause him which he has not come to terms with yet.
He may have not dealt with some of the experiences as the mine is ‘unexploded’
repeated 4 times
suggests slow process and repetitive
verbs ‘trace’ and attend’ creates sematic field of gentleness. suggests how caring she is
verb ‘bind’ suggests how she is helping him to regain his strength.
stresses how carefully and delicately she cares for him'
dulce est decouremest
mametz wood
wife in london
london
As imperceptibly as grief
Romantic poet
Early romantic poet
Radical political views influenced by the french monarchy which was over thrown by the people
comes from songs of innocence and experience - focuses on the negative aspects of life
Dramatic monolouge written in first person.
The ABAB rhyme sceheme, strict iambic tetrameter constraited to four Quatrians.
reflects the unforgiving nature of life nd routine in the capital which has become inescapeable
emphasises the unbroken mysery he sees.
Enjambent in stanza one
everyone is linked by misery
repetition in both stanza one and two
emphasizes no one is unaffected.
First two stanza: focuses on what he sees and hears
Third stanza: criticises the intitutions he blames
Final stanza: refocuses on the people in particular the corruption of the innocent and the young.
Alliteration of the m sound
adds musicality and rythm to the poem creating a sense of melancholoy and sorrow.
the repeated m sound echoes the sense of heaviness and weight associated ‘‘marks of weakness’ and ‘‘marks of woe’’ emphasizing the suffering and despair in london.
Paradox
The use of paradox in this quote serves to heighten the sense of despair and hopelessness in the poem.
By suggesting that weakness and woe are visible and tangible "marks," Blake highlights the pervasive and inescapable nature of suffering in London, creating a stark contrast between the idealized vision of the city and the grim reality of poverty and misery.
can also be interpreted as a form of satire, where Blake employs irony and exaggeration to mock the hypocrisy and corruption of the society of his time.
this quote serves to critique the oppressive social and political systems of Blake's contemporary London, where the suffering and misery of the lower classes are dismissed and ignored by the ruling elite. It highlights the disconnect between the idealized vision of London as a prosperous and thriving city and the harsh reality of poverty and suffering that existed beneath the surface.
Anaphora
The hyperbolic use of "every" i
exaggerates the extent of the suffering in London, intensifying the sense of distress and misery experienced by the people. It creates a sense of overwhelming despair and emphasizes the dire state of the city, drawing attention to the magnitude of the issue.
The use of universality
highlights the pervasive nature of suffering and misery, transcending social, economic, and cultural boundaries.
conveys the idea that the issue of suffering is not isolated, but rather a shared experience that transcends individual differences.
encourages a reflection on the universal aspects of human suffering and promotes a sense of empathy and solidarity among people.
Hyperbole
Emphasis on Widespread Decay
The hyperbolic language used in the quote amplifies the magnitude of the societal issues, particularly the moral decay, by suggesting that the corruption and degradation of the Church are not limited to a few instances but are pervasive throughout society.
The apostrophe
Personification of Corruption
The apostrophe personifies the Church as a corrupt and morally decayed entity, symbolized by the term "black'ning."
This suggests that the Church, which is supposed to represent purity and goodness, has become tainted and darkened by the societal issues and injustices present in London during Blake's time. It conveys a sense of betrayal and disappointment towards the Church's failure to fulfill its spiritual duties.
a. Personification: The use of personification in the phrase "blights with plagues" attributes human-like qualities of causing harm or decay to the concept of plagues. In this case, the plagues are portrayed as actively and intentionally causing harm to the marriage hearse, which is a metaphorical representation of the institution of marriage.
Effects:
Metaphorical Destruction: The personification of plagues as actively blighting the marriage hearse creates a metaphorical image of the destructive impact of social, moral, and spiritual decay on the institution of marriage. It suggests that the social issues and injustices present in London during Blake's time, such as poverty, disease, and moral corruption, are eroding and contaminating the sanctity of marriage, leading to its downfall.
Symbolic Decay: The personification of plagues also symbolizes the decay of societal values and norms. By attributing human-like qualities to the plagues, the quote suggests that these issues are not just external forces, but rather internal and intrinsic to the societal structure itself. It conveys a sense of societal degradation and moral decay, where the very foundation of marriage, which is typically associated with love and companionship, is being tainted by the societal problems.
b. Oxymoron: The juxtaposition of the words "marriage" and "hearse" creates an oxymoron, as marriage is typically associated with joy, union, and life, while a hearse is associated with death and mourning.
Effects:
Contradictory Imagery: The oxymoron creates a sense of contradictory imagery, as the marriage hearse is an incongruous combination of two opposing concepts. It suggests that the institution of marriage, which is typically associated with happiness and vitality, is instead associated with death and decay in the context of the poem. This creates a jarring and unsettling effect, emphasizing the negative impact of societal issues on the institution of marriage.
Irony: The oxymoron also conveys a sense of irony, as a hearse, which is used to transport the dead, is being associated with marriage, which is a symbol of life and vitality. This irony suggests that the societal issues and problems in London have distorted and perverted the traditional meanings and values associated with marriage, creating a sense of irony and sarcasm towards the deteriorating state of the institution.
Sense of place: living space
Pain and suffering: the manhunt
criticism of power and authority :ozymandias
lord byron was an english romantic poet described as ‘mad, bad and dangerous’
Written in 1814
However this poem is more restrained and lyrical in nature
Comes from a series of poems called Hebrew Melodies which are religious pieces set to music.
reflects the almost sacred adoration withint the poem.
Poem was inspired by Anne Wilmot, wife of byrons first cousin.
He was struct by her epitomising beauty.
the poem is an emotive tribute to her perfection.
. Form and structure help with the tranquil and gentle pace and pictures in this poem.
Lyrical in tone and nature
Focuses on abstract ideas of beauty and innocence
has a unwavering ABABAB rhyme scheme
expresses the conviction of the speakers thoughts.
or could reflect the enduring nature of the woman’s beauty and express how she is a balance of different qualities and her perfection.
Written in iambic pentameter and uses enjambments
narrator is overwhelmed by the woman’s beauty
Written in third person,
talking only about the woman
implicitly conveying the persona’s adoration, but possibly objectifying her as no more than a vessel of beauty.
Narrating in first person suggests the woman’s beauty is eternal.
Split into 3 sestets. The perfection in order reinforces the woman’s perfection.
Each sestet is one sentence, giving a sense of fluidity and reflecting her effortless grace, poise and elegance.
Begins by focusing on her external beauty, describing different aspects in turn.
Concludes by considering it as her inner goodness which is outwardly manifested.
The speaker is highlighting the woman’s radiance and elegance.
The similie of the night sky suggests that the woman’s beauty is beyond human control or understanding, just like the vastness and mystery of the universe.
The speaker is implying that the woman’s beauty is tranquil and calming,
The imagery of a ‘cloudless’ and ‘starry’ night suggests a sense of still consequently the alliteration makes it sound peaceful and serenity
repetition of one creates a sense of balance and symmetry in the line.
antithesis - creates a contrast between opposing ideas of addition and subtraction, emphasizing the fragility and delicacy of the woman’s beauty.
contrast between ‘shade’ and ‘ray’ and ‘more’ and ‘less’, draws attention to the idea that even the smallest change to the woman’s appearance could have a significance impact on her beauty.
Use of antithesis also creates a sense of balance in the line, as the opposing ideas are presented in a parallel structure.
This balance combined with alliteration contributes to the musicality and rhythm of the line, creating a memorable and impactful and harmonious image of the woman’s beauty
The words ‘mind’ and ‘heart’ are the first stressed syllables in these lines.
the emphasis this gives shows how much the narrator values these things’
the phrase ‘a mind at peace with all below’ implies that the woman is able to maintain a sense of equilibrium and detachment from conflicts and struggles of the world around her.
The metaphorical language suggests that the woman’s inner peace is a rare and valuable quality, and that it contributes to her overall beauty and grace.
sonnet 43
valentine
cozy apologia
The title is ironic.
The reader expects a love poem which is traditional and romantic.
Instead, Duffy rejects the cliched symbols of love and gives us an anti- valentine poem that challenges traditional romantic stereotypes and undermines the platitudes of Valentine’s day
The persona in the poem gives their lover an unconventional Valentine’s Day gift of an onion, rejecting the clichés normally associated with the day such as red roses.
They explore why the onion is a more suitable and realistic expression of their love: it is a moon, it is promises light and hope, it can make you cry, it is powerful and intense and its scent can linger on you indefinitely. Ultimately, it highlights the negative as well as the positive effects of a deep and loving relationship.
The forceful presentation of this gift, and the final word choice, also suggests this is a relationship which is cruel, domineering and menacing.
Written as a response to a challenge from a radio presenter asking her to write an original poem for Valentines day.
A conceit - reminiscent of metaphysical poets like John Donne who used ordinary or unusual objects to explore ideas of love.
free verse.
Rejection of traditional love poem forms such as sonnets.
Written in first person, in stanzas of irregular length.
an extended metaphor that gradually reveals the deterioration of love over time from something hopeful to something threatening. The tone starts playful and optimistic, becoming forceful and hostile at the end. Single word lines such as “Lethal” emphasise this
Single word lines
Repitition emphasises coercion.
Breaks the similie up- makes the poem feel disjointed.
separation also emphasises how unpredictable these similes are - comparison doesn’t end up how the reader would’ve expected it to.
Lines often flow into one another creating a sense of continuity and emotional openness.
Emphasises the conversational tone and reinforces the idea that the speaker is speaking directly to her lover.
Metaphor
the moon as a metaphor for onion suggests that love has many phases, just like the moons
Sonnet 43/ Cozy Apologia/ Afternoons
London and Dulce
She Walks in Beauty
The title can be read literally or metaphorically.
Perhaps it is just a bird of prey viewing its territory, confident of its power.
However, metaphorically a hawk is someone who favours war and aggression, therefore it could represent a dictator.
The fact that they are “roosting” suggests that they are relaxed and unconflicted about their violent actions. The feel unassailable and omnipotent.
Ted Hughes was a British poet who made his name as a nature poet, especially poetry about animals.
In the poem he represents nature red in tooth claw- the hawk is violently murderous, brutal and sees itself as the pinnacle of creation, top of the food chain.
It has a visceral, predatory efficiency and doesn’t see the need to compromise on this.
However, some critics interpreted the poem as an allegory for human nature and argue that the hawk symbolises a murderous tyrant who rules through violence and fear. It represents the dictator’s extreme arrogance or hubris and the innate savagery of man
Hughes denied this interpretation.
Imagery
Visual Appeal: The imagery of "mists" and "mellow fruitfulness" appeals to the reader's sense of sight, helping to create a visual image of autumn as a season of beauty and abundance.
Emotional Impact: The sensory imagery also evokes emotions such as tranquility, abundance, and serenity, which contribute to the overall mood and tone of the poem. It creates a sense of calmness and richness associated with the season of autumn.
Alliteration
Musicality: The alliteration of the "m" sound creates a musical quality in the line, adding to the overall rhythm and flow of the poem. birds such as robin cooing.
Emphasis: The alliteration of the "m" sound draws attention to the words "mists" and "mellow," emphasizing their significance in describing the characteristics of autumn.
Personification:
"last oozings," - the final drops of sap or nectar from plants as they prepare for winter.
Symbolism: a metaphor for the passage of time itself, highlighting the transient nature of life and the inevitability of change.
Repetition:
The repetition of the word "hours" emphasizes the passage of time and creates a rhythmic effect in the line.
Where are the songs of springs? ay, where are they?
The quote "two vast and trunkless legs of stone/stand in desert" is from the poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley. The line describes a ruined statue of a once-great king, Ozymandias, whose legacy has crumbled over time. The use of literary devices in this quote enhances the imagery and conveys the central themes of the poem.
Metaphor: The use of the metaphor "two vast and trunkless legs of stone" compares the ruins of the statue to legs made of stone. This creates a vivid image in the reader's mind and emphasizes the colossal size of the statue, which has now fallen into disrepair.
Effects: a) Visual imagery: The metaphorical description of the statue's legs as "vast and trunkless" creates a powerful visual image of the massive, broken ruins lying in the desert. This imagery highlights the theme of the transience of human power and the inevitable decline of empires. b) Symbolism: The metaphor of the broken legs also symbolizes the shattered legacy of Ozymandias, once a powerful ruler whose authority and influence have now crumbled into ruin. It conveys the idea of the fleeting nature of human achievements and the eventual downfall of arrogance and hubris.
Personification: The use of personification in the phrase "stand in desert" gives human-like qualities to the desert, implying that the desert is a silent witness to the fallen statue, as if it has the ability to pass judgment or bear testimony to the transience of human endeavors.
Effects: a) Irony: The personification of the desert as standing, while the statue's legs lie broken, is ironic and serves to emphasize the impermanence of human achievements. It creates a stark contrast between the once-mighty statue and the timeless and indifferent nature of the desert, highlighting the theme of the fleeting nature of human power and glory. b) Pathos: The personification of the desert also evokes a sense of loneliness and abandonment, as if the statue and its grandeur have been forsaken by time and fate. This evokes a feeling of melancholy and adds to the overall sense of decay and deterioration in the poem, emphasizing the theme of the inevitable decline of all earthly things.
Overall, the use of metaphor and personification in the quoted line from "Ozymandias" enhances the imagery and symbolism in the poem, and effectively conveys the themes of the transient nature of human power, the fleetingness of glory, and the inevitable decline of empires.
‘
Autobiographical
The prelude was intended as a prologue to the planned three part poem
Impacts youth because:
he wasn’t posh
grew up in the idyllic setting of the Lake District, where this poem in set.
Romantic poet
distance relationship with is father.
His mother died when he was 7 or 8.
He was sent to boarding school.
Spent a lot of time outdoors; believed nature could be like a parent
Wordsworth felt strongly that nature was an important influence in his life – he called it The Great Universal Teacher. Children are presented as having a powerful and natural affinity with nature in their innocence. However, Wordsworth also believed nature had a darker side that inspired awe and wonder – he called this the Sublime – powerful moments of the sublime could open your mind to deeper more philosophical thoughts
Written in first person and is focused on a specific memory.
Blank verse and iambic pentameter.
makes it sound natural and unforced as if its a personal intimate conversation with reader.
could mimic the natural heartbeat of a human which may allude to the poets feelings for nature.
Steady rhythm creates the impression that memory is clear and certain,
the enjambment creates a spontaneity to the memory and sense of joy.
There are two main sections to the excerpt.
The main focus is the memory of the ice skating which is recalled with vivid and exhilarating detail.
Tone is carefree and one of wild abandonment and is punctuated with caesuras and lists which conveys the energetic excitement of the children.
At line 16 there is a volta where the older voice reflects on nature that as a child went ‘unnoticed’’ - this introduces a more serious tone and mature understanding of the more threatening aspects of nature and the world around.
‘I heeded not the summons: – happy time’
Use of the phrase happy times in conjunction with the speaker’s refusal to heed the summons creates an ironic effect
suggests the speakers happiness is not dependent on fulfilling social obligations but rather on personal freedom and self determination.
May suggest that the speakers happiness is short-lived or illusionary. speakers refusal to engage with demands of society may ultimately lead to negative consequences of isolation.
Caesura after summon created by the use of colon
creates a dramatic pause, emphasizing the speakers defiant rejection of social expectations
Suggests that the speakers decision to prioritize their own happiness over external obligations is a moment of empowerment and self assertation.
Creates a moment of hesitation and uncertainty, suggesting that the speaker’s decision to ignore the call is not entirely confident or decisive. This interpretation may suggest that the speaker is perhaps torn between conflicting desires and responsibilities.
‘I wheel’d about, proud and exulting, like an untir’d horse’
Similie ‘‘like an untir’d horse’’
Creates a sense of youthful energy and vitality, suggesting that the speaker is filled with boundless energy and enthusiasm.
Animalistic imagery (zoomorphism)- the narrator compares himself to hounds and hares which implies their wild untamed nature and close connection to nature.
Could also suggest That the speaker may be acting on instinct rather than reason. Prone to recklessness and impulsiveness.
Vivid visual kinesthetic imagery ‘‘wheel’d about’’
sense of sensory richness and intensity, suggesting tht the speaker is fully immersed in the moment and experiencing life to its fullest. Embracing joys and pleasures of life
Creates a sense of hyperbole ad exaggeration suggesting the speaker may be prone to overstatement and exaggeration of their emotions. This interpretation suggests that the speaker may be trying to convince themselves or others of their happiness or contentment, even if its not entirely genuine. (Connect with context)
‘‘wheel’d’’ and ‘flew’
Powerful action verbs creates speed and movement of youthful energy which is present in the poem.
The orange sky as a metaphor for passing of time
creates a sense of poignance and beauty, suggests that even the fleeting moments of life can be imbued with meaning and significance.
suggests that the speaker values the transience of life and finds beauty in its impermanence.
Creates a sense of ‘‘melancholy’’ and loss, suggesting even beautiful moments in life are ultimately fleeting and impermanent.
Suggests that the speaker may be reflecting on the transience of life and inevitability of mortality.
Negative diction such as ‘melancholy’ , ‘alien’ and ‘died’ is introduced which adds t the so
contemplative, joyous, reminiscing, nostalgically,
The passage of time/ past
Death of a naturalist
Innocence v experience
To Autumn/Ozymandias
Nature
Afternoons
-A pun/play on word
-manhunt is an organised search for a criminal and in this case its the wife’s search for the man she knew and her relentless, yet tender, exploration of his inner trauma which leads to a newfound understanding of him.
The manhunt is a contemporary poem.
Originally aired as a part of channel 4 documentary, forgotten hero’s: The Not Dead.
The poem is read by Laura, the wife of Eddi Beddoes, who is the subject of the poem
he served as a peace-keeper in Bosnia before being discharged due to injury and depression.
Armitage wrote the poem after interviewing veteran’s returning from war and as a means of exploring the psychological impact on those who survived intense trauma
could reflect similar with the speaker as they haven't experienced the trauma but they are both spectators in the life of those who have suffered.
May reflect a human body
may reflect an hour glass to show how progress just takes time.
the poems couplet long stanzas have varying length.
In the beginning, the couplet rhymes, perhaps reflecting the couples harmony when they first reunited.
but the rhyme beak down making the poem feel disjointed and conveys the theme of brokenness.
May reflect their struggle to reconnect and how she will have to learn who her husband is now.
or the increasingly disjointed nature of their relationship
Each couplet introduces a different injury and the reader explores the body and mind of the soldier alongside his wife, experiencing the process at the same time.
The use of enjambment mimics the way she traces the injury that runs continuously across his body and explores the damage done
demonstrates the slow progress she is making
First rhyming couplet could be the start of a traditional love poem.
Echoes the first stages of the relationship suggesting the couples are reconnecting.
The alliteration and verb expresses her tenderness and caution in how she approaches him.
the repeated structure of two verbs in each stanza conveys the idea that she takes an active part in helping the soldier get better.
Extended metaphor
Has found the ‘source’ of the river meaning she is close to finding the main cause
A double entendre
the bullet only ‘grazed’ past his heart
but it left emotional grazes behind
metaphor comparing the bullet to a foetus emphasizes that his experiences are now a part of him.
could also hint that being injured is as life changing as having a kid
could also suggest he is like a child unable to say what he what hurts like a child cant speak but they cry. As he cant say the wife takes it upon her to explore him to find his injuries and piece him together similarly like a mother trying to help their child to get them to stop crying and suffering from pain.
refers to the tension and stress his memories cause him which he has not come to terms with yet.
He may have not dealt with some of the experiences as the mine is ‘unexploded’
repeated 4 times
suggests slow process and repetitive
verbs ‘trace’ and attend’ creates sematic field of gentleness. suggests how caring she is
verb ‘bind’ suggests how she is helping him to regain his strength.
stresses how carefully and delicately she cares for him'
dulce est decouremest
mametz wood
wife in london
london
As imperceptibly as grief
Romantic poet
Early romantic poet
Radical political views influenced by the french monarchy which was over thrown by the people
comes from songs of innocence and experience - focuses on the negative aspects of life
Dramatic monolouge written in first person.
The ABAB rhyme sceheme, strict iambic tetrameter constraited to four Quatrians.
reflects the unforgiving nature of life nd routine in the capital which has become inescapeable
emphasises the unbroken mysery he sees.
Enjambent in stanza one
everyone is linked by misery
repetition in both stanza one and two
emphasizes no one is unaffected.
First two stanza: focuses on what he sees and hears
Third stanza: criticises the intitutions he blames
Final stanza: refocuses on the people in particular the corruption of the innocent and the young.
Alliteration of the m sound
adds musicality and rythm to the poem creating a sense of melancholoy and sorrow.
the repeated m sound echoes the sense of heaviness and weight associated ‘‘marks of weakness’ and ‘‘marks of woe’’ emphasizing the suffering and despair in london.
Paradox
The use of paradox in this quote serves to heighten the sense of despair and hopelessness in the poem.
By suggesting that weakness and woe are visible and tangible "marks," Blake highlights the pervasive and inescapable nature of suffering in London, creating a stark contrast between the idealized vision of the city and the grim reality of poverty and misery.
can also be interpreted as a form of satire, where Blake employs irony and exaggeration to mock the hypocrisy and corruption of the society of his time.
this quote serves to critique the oppressive social and political systems of Blake's contemporary London, where the suffering and misery of the lower classes are dismissed and ignored by the ruling elite. It highlights the disconnect between the idealized vision of London as a prosperous and thriving city and the harsh reality of poverty and suffering that existed beneath the surface.
Anaphora
The hyperbolic use of "every" i
exaggerates the extent of the suffering in London, intensifying the sense of distress and misery experienced by the people. It creates a sense of overwhelming despair and emphasizes the dire state of the city, drawing attention to the magnitude of the issue.
The use of universality
highlights the pervasive nature of suffering and misery, transcending social, economic, and cultural boundaries.
conveys the idea that the issue of suffering is not isolated, but rather a shared experience that transcends individual differences.
encourages a reflection on the universal aspects of human suffering and promotes a sense of empathy and solidarity among people.
Hyperbole
Emphasis on Widespread Decay
The hyperbolic language used in the quote amplifies the magnitude of the societal issues, particularly the moral decay, by suggesting that the corruption and degradation of the Church are not limited to a few instances but are pervasive throughout society.
The apostrophe
Personification of Corruption
The apostrophe personifies the Church as a corrupt and morally decayed entity, symbolized by the term "black'ning."
This suggests that the Church, which is supposed to represent purity and goodness, has become tainted and darkened by the societal issues and injustices present in London during Blake's time. It conveys a sense of betrayal and disappointment towards the Church's failure to fulfill its spiritual duties.
a. Personification: The use of personification in the phrase "blights with plagues" attributes human-like qualities of causing harm or decay to the concept of plagues. In this case, the plagues are portrayed as actively and intentionally causing harm to the marriage hearse, which is a metaphorical representation of the institution of marriage.
Effects:
Metaphorical Destruction: The personification of plagues as actively blighting the marriage hearse creates a metaphorical image of the destructive impact of social, moral, and spiritual decay on the institution of marriage. It suggests that the social issues and injustices present in London during Blake's time, such as poverty, disease, and moral corruption, are eroding and contaminating the sanctity of marriage, leading to its downfall.
Symbolic Decay: The personification of plagues also symbolizes the decay of societal values and norms. By attributing human-like qualities to the plagues, the quote suggests that these issues are not just external forces, but rather internal and intrinsic to the societal structure itself. It conveys a sense of societal degradation and moral decay, where the very foundation of marriage, which is typically associated with love and companionship, is being tainted by the societal problems.
b. Oxymoron: The juxtaposition of the words "marriage" and "hearse" creates an oxymoron, as marriage is typically associated with joy, union, and life, while a hearse is associated with death and mourning.
Effects:
Contradictory Imagery: The oxymoron creates a sense of contradictory imagery, as the marriage hearse is an incongruous combination of two opposing concepts. It suggests that the institution of marriage, which is typically associated with happiness and vitality, is instead associated with death and decay in the context of the poem. This creates a jarring and unsettling effect, emphasizing the negative impact of societal issues on the institution of marriage.
Irony: The oxymoron also conveys a sense of irony, as a hearse, which is used to transport the dead, is being associated with marriage, which is a symbol of life and vitality. This irony suggests that the societal issues and problems in London have distorted and perverted the traditional meanings and values associated with marriage, creating a sense of irony and sarcasm towards the deteriorating state of the institution.
Sense of place: living space
Pain and suffering: the manhunt
criticism of power and authority :ozymandias
lord byron was an english romantic poet described as ‘mad, bad and dangerous’
Written in 1814
However this poem is more restrained and lyrical in nature
Comes from a series of poems called Hebrew Melodies which are religious pieces set to music.
reflects the almost sacred adoration withint the poem.
Poem was inspired by Anne Wilmot, wife of byrons first cousin.
He was struct by her epitomising beauty.
the poem is an emotive tribute to her perfection.
. Form and structure help with the tranquil and gentle pace and pictures in this poem.
Lyrical in tone and nature
Focuses on abstract ideas of beauty and innocence
has a unwavering ABABAB rhyme scheme
expresses the conviction of the speakers thoughts.
or could reflect the enduring nature of the woman’s beauty and express how she is a balance of different qualities and her perfection.
Written in iambic pentameter and uses enjambments
narrator is overwhelmed by the woman’s beauty
Written in third person,
talking only about the woman
implicitly conveying the persona’s adoration, but possibly objectifying her as no more than a vessel of beauty.
Narrating in first person suggests the woman’s beauty is eternal.
Split into 3 sestets. The perfection in order reinforces the woman’s perfection.
Each sestet is one sentence, giving a sense of fluidity and reflecting her effortless grace, poise and elegance.
Begins by focusing on her external beauty, describing different aspects in turn.
Concludes by considering it as her inner goodness which is outwardly manifested.
The speaker is highlighting the woman’s radiance and elegance.
The similie of the night sky suggests that the woman’s beauty is beyond human control or understanding, just like the vastness and mystery of the universe.
The speaker is implying that the woman’s beauty is tranquil and calming,
The imagery of a ‘cloudless’ and ‘starry’ night suggests a sense of still consequently the alliteration makes it sound peaceful and serenity
repetition of one creates a sense of balance and symmetry in the line.
antithesis - creates a contrast between opposing ideas of addition and subtraction, emphasizing the fragility and delicacy of the woman’s beauty.
contrast between ‘shade’ and ‘ray’ and ‘more’ and ‘less’, draws attention to the idea that even the smallest change to the woman’s appearance could have a significance impact on her beauty.
Use of antithesis also creates a sense of balance in the line, as the opposing ideas are presented in a parallel structure.
This balance combined with alliteration contributes to the musicality and rhythm of the line, creating a memorable and impactful and harmonious image of the woman’s beauty
The words ‘mind’ and ‘heart’ are the first stressed syllables in these lines.
the emphasis this gives shows how much the narrator values these things’
the phrase ‘a mind at peace with all below’ implies that the woman is able to maintain a sense of equilibrium and detachment from conflicts and struggles of the world around her.
The metaphorical language suggests that the woman’s inner peace is a rare and valuable quality, and that it contributes to her overall beauty and grace.
sonnet 43
valentine
cozy apologia
The title is ironic.
The reader expects a love poem which is traditional and romantic.
Instead, Duffy rejects the cliched symbols of love and gives us an anti- valentine poem that challenges traditional romantic stereotypes and undermines the platitudes of Valentine’s day
The persona in the poem gives their lover an unconventional Valentine’s Day gift of an onion, rejecting the clichés normally associated with the day such as red roses.
They explore why the onion is a more suitable and realistic expression of their love: it is a moon, it is promises light and hope, it can make you cry, it is powerful and intense and its scent can linger on you indefinitely. Ultimately, it highlights the negative as well as the positive effects of a deep and loving relationship.
The forceful presentation of this gift, and the final word choice, also suggests this is a relationship which is cruel, domineering and menacing.
Written as a response to a challenge from a radio presenter asking her to write an original poem for Valentines day.
A conceit - reminiscent of metaphysical poets like John Donne who used ordinary or unusual objects to explore ideas of love.
free verse.
Rejection of traditional love poem forms such as sonnets.
Written in first person, in stanzas of irregular length.
an extended metaphor that gradually reveals the deterioration of love over time from something hopeful to something threatening. The tone starts playful and optimistic, becoming forceful and hostile at the end. Single word lines such as “Lethal” emphasise this
Single word lines
Repitition emphasises coercion.
Breaks the similie up- makes the poem feel disjointed.
separation also emphasises how unpredictable these similes are - comparison doesn’t end up how the reader would’ve expected it to.
Lines often flow into one another creating a sense of continuity and emotional openness.
Emphasises the conversational tone and reinforces the idea that the speaker is speaking directly to her lover.
Metaphor
the moon as a metaphor for onion suggests that love has many phases, just like the moons
Sonnet 43/ Cozy Apologia/ Afternoons
London and Dulce
She Walks in Beauty
The title can be read literally or metaphorically.
Perhaps it is just a bird of prey viewing its territory, confident of its power.
However, metaphorically a hawk is someone who favours war and aggression, therefore it could represent a dictator.
The fact that they are “roosting” suggests that they are relaxed and unconflicted about their violent actions. The feel unassailable and omnipotent.
Ted Hughes was a British poet who made his name as a nature poet, especially poetry about animals.
In the poem he represents nature red in tooth claw- the hawk is violently murderous, brutal and sees itself as the pinnacle of creation, top of the food chain.
It has a visceral, predatory efficiency and doesn’t see the need to compromise on this.
However, some critics interpreted the poem as an allegory for human nature and argue that the hawk symbolises a murderous tyrant who rules through violence and fear. It represents the dictator’s extreme arrogance or hubris and the innate savagery of man
Hughes denied this interpretation.
Imagery
Visual Appeal: The imagery of "mists" and "mellow fruitfulness" appeals to the reader's sense of sight, helping to create a visual image of autumn as a season of beauty and abundance.
Emotional Impact: The sensory imagery also evokes emotions such as tranquility, abundance, and serenity, which contribute to the overall mood and tone of the poem. It creates a sense of calmness and richness associated with the season of autumn.
Alliteration
Musicality: The alliteration of the "m" sound creates a musical quality in the line, adding to the overall rhythm and flow of the poem. birds such as robin cooing.
Emphasis: The alliteration of the "m" sound draws attention to the words "mists" and "mellow," emphasizing their significance in describing the characteristics of autumn.
Personification:
"last oozings," - the final drops of sap or nectar from plants as they prepare for winter.
Symbolism: a metaphor for the passage of time itself, highlighting the transient nature of life and the inevitability of change.
Repetition:
The repetition of the word "hours" emphasizes the passage of time and creates a rhythmic effect in the line.
Where are the songs of springs? ay, where are they?
The quote "two vast and trunkless legs of stone/stand in desert" is from the poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley. The line describes a ruined statue of a once-great king, Ozymandias, whose legacy has crumbled over time. The use of literary devices in this quote enhances the imagery and conveys the central themes of the poem.
Metaphor: The use of the metaphor "two vast and trunkless legs of stone" compares the ruins of the statue to legs made of stone. This creates a vivid image in the reader's mind and emphasizes the colossal size of the statue, which has now fallen into disrepair.
Effects: a) Visual imagery: The metaphorical description of the statue's legs as "vast and trunkless" creates a powerful visual image of the massive, broken ruins lying in the desert. This imagery highlights the theme of the transience of human power and the inevitable decline of empires. b) Symbolism: The metaphor of the broken legs also symbolizes the shattered legacy of Ozymandias, once a powerful ruler whose authority and influence have now crumbled into ruin. It conveys the idea of the fleeting nature of human achievements and the eventual downfall of arrogance and hubris.
Personification: The use of personification in the phrase "stand in desert" gives human-like qualities to the desert, implying that the desert is a silent witness to the fallen statue, as if it has the ability to pass judgment or bear testimony to the transience of human endeavors.
Effects: a) Irony: The personification of the desert as standing, while the statue's legs lie broken, is ironic and serves to emphasize the impermanence of human achievements. It creates a stark contrast between the once-mighty statue and the timeless and indifferent nature of the desert, highlighting the theme of the fleeting nature of human power and glory. b) Pathos: The personification of the desert also evokes a sense of loneliness and abandonment, as if the statue and its grandeur have been forsaken by time and fate. This evokes a feeling of melancholy and adds to the overall sense of decay and deterioration in the poem, emphasizing the theme of the inevitable decline of all earthly things.
Overall, the use of metaphor and personification in the quoted line from "Ozymandias" enhances the imagery and symbolism in the poem, and effectively conveys the themes of the transient nature of human power, the fleetingness of glory, and the inevitable decline of empires.
‘
Autobiographical
The prelude was intended as a prologue to the planned three part poem
Impacts youth because:
he wasn’t posh
grew up in the idyllic setting of the Lake District, where this poem in set.
Romantic poet
distance relationship with is father.
His mother died when he was 7 or 8.
He was sent to boarding school.
Spent a lot of time outdoors; believed nature could be like a parent
Wordsworth felt strongly that nature was an important influence in his life – he called it The Great Universal Teacher. Children are presented as having a powerful and natural affinity with nature in their innocence. However, Wordsworth also believed nature had a darker side that inspired awe and wonder – he called this the Sublime – powerful moments of the sublime could open your mind to deeper more philosophical thoughts
Written in first person and is focused on a specific memory.
Blank verse and iambic pentameter.
makes it sound natural and unforced as if its a personal intimate conversation with reader.
could mimic the natural heartbeat of a human which may allude to the poets feelings for nature.
Steady rhythm creates the impression that memory is clear and certain,
the enjambment creates a spontaneity to the memory and sense of joy.
There are two main sections to the excerpt.
The main focus is the memory of the ice skating which is recalled with vivid and exhilarating detail.
Tone is carefree and one of wild abandonment and is punctuated with caesuras and lists which conveys the energetic excitement of the children.
At line 16 there is a volta where the older voice reflects on nature that as a child went ‘unnoticed’’ - this introduces a more serious tone and mature understanding of the more threatening aspects of nature and the world around.
‘I heeded not the summons: – happy time’
Use of the phrase happy times in conjunction with the speaker’s refusal to heed the summons creates an ironic effect
suggests the speakers happiness is not dependent on fulfilling social obligations but rather on personal freedom and self determination.
May suggest that the speakers happiness is short-lived or illusionary. speakers refusal to engage with demands of society may ultimately lead to negative consequences of isolation.
Caesura after summon created by the use of colon
creates a dramatic pause, emphasizing the speakers defiant rejection of social expectations
Suggests that the speakers decision to prioritize their own happiness over external obligations is a moment of empowerment and self assertation.
Creates a moment of hesitation and uncertainty, suggesting that the speaker’s decision to ignore the call is not entirely confident or decisive. This interpretation may suggest that the speaker is perhaps torn between conflicting desires and responsibilities.
‘I wheel’d about, proud and exulting, like an untir’d horse’
Similie ‘‘like an untir’d horse’’
Creates a sense of youthful energy and vitality, suggesting that the speaker is filled with boundless energy and enthusiasm.
Animalistic imagery (zoomorphism)- the narrator compares himself to hounds and hares which implies their wild untamed nature and close connection to nature.
Could also suggest That the speaker may be acting on instinct rather than reason. Prone to recklessness and impulsiveness.
Vivid visual kinesthetic imagery ‘‘wheel’d about’’
sense of sensory richness and intensity, suggesting tht the speaker is fully immersed in the moment and experiencing life to its fullest. Embracing joys and pleasures of life
Creates a sense of hyperbole ad exaggeration suggesting the speaker may be prone to overstatement and exaggeration of their emotions. This interpretation suggests that the speaker may be trying to convince themselves or others of their happiness or contentment, even if its not entirely genuine. (Connect with context)
‘‘wheel’d’’ and ‘flew’
Powerful action verbs creates speed and movement of youthful energy which is present in the poem.
The orange sky as a metaphor for passing of time
creates a sense of poignance and beauty, suggests that even the fleeting moments of life can be imbued with meaning and significance.
suggests that the speaker values the transience of life and finds beauty in its impermanence.
Creates a sense of ‘‘melancholy’’ and loss, suggesting even beautiful moments in life are ultimately fleeting and impermanent.
Suggests that the speaker may be reflecting on the transience of life and inevitability of mortality.
Negative diction such as ‘melancholy’ , ‘alien’ and ‘died’ is introduced which adds t the so
contemplative, joyous, reminiscing, nostalgically,
The passage of time/ past
Death of a naturalist
Innocence v experience
To Autumn/Ozymandias
Nature
Afternoons
