13. A Portable Paradise

Question 1

Who wrote the poem and what do we know about them?

Answer 1

Roger Robinson- bon in London to Trinidadian parents then moved back to Trinidad

Question 2

what is the poem about

Answer 2

the speaker recalls some advice that their grand mother gave them about treating paradise as a private idea that could be carried with them. It explores how the idea of paradise can be used as a source of comfort in difficult times and a reminder of home if you migrate country

Question 3

what are key feelings in the poem

Answer 3

memory, struggle

Question 4

what are key themes in the poem

Answer 4

identity (family heritage), nature (connection) migration

Question 5

quote that shows an unknown threat, show lack of connection to a place or community, talks to the loneliness of migration

Answer 5

That way they can’t steal it

Question 6

quote that shows alteration and worsening conditions making paradise feeling a more remote possibility, but showing you can find it anywhere

Answer 6

hotel, hostel, hovel

Question 7

quote that talks to shining a light which is an image of hope and optimism

Answer 7

empty your paradise onto a desk.. sine a lamp on it