A Constable Calls Flashcards
Personification. Unflattering image of the bicycle. Perhaps the bike is an extension of the constable so the imagery is also for the constable
fat black handlegrips
Deadly imagery of the dynamo (generator on a bike). Almost like a comparison to a gun. Illustrates the terror that the constable brings considering even seeing his bike strikes fear into the hearts of people. Enjambment helps with sense of fear
the ‘spud’
Of the dynamo gleaming and cocked back
The pedals of the bike seem to be relieved to no long hold the constable. Perhaps could be a metaphor for the relief people feel when the constable leaves them without punishment?
The pedal treads hanging relieved
Of the boot of the law
This could also be a metaphor for the civil rights marches in Northern Ireland. Or the harshness of the police on Catholics
The boot of the law
Plain and simple but effective line. Heaney’s father is telling the constable what he is growing but there is clear fear as he does so. The short line creates tension and that is aided by the punctuation
Arithmetic and fear.
Threatening images of the constable’s weaponry and the harm he can do if he pleases. Evidently an image that has haunted Heaney since childhood. Enjambment helps tension
I sat staring at the polished holster
With its buttoned flap, the braid cord
Looped into the revolver butt
Conversation between Constable and Heaney’s father. Quite clipped, short and tense. Alliteration used. Suggests there is no respect for one another, they merely have to put up with each other. Clear Constable is in control. Punctuation helps create interrogation effect
‘Any other root crops?
Mangolds? Marrowstems? Anything like that?’
‘No.’
Innocence of young Heaney evident. Notices father is lying. Questions it
But was there not a line
Of turnips where the seed ran out
In the potato field?
Heaney felt like an accessory to the crime of his father and imagines what will happen if they are caught lying. First person, Personal experience and thoughts
I assumed
Small guilts and sat
Imagining the black hole in the barracks.
Another threatening image as the Constable is making his leave. Cold and clinical movements to purposefully evoke fear
He stood up, shifted the baton-case
Heaney and his father got away with their little crime. The constable closes the ledger, the one thing that could record their crime and prove their guilt
Closed the domesday book
The first time the Constable acknowledged Heaney’s existence. Almost like an afterthought. Heaney possibly feels guilty and like the Constable can see through him and his father’s lie. An accusatory look
And looked at me as he said goodbye
Harsh sound as the Constable leaves the Heaney household. Boot of the law leaving them for another day. As if time is ticking down until the next inevitable visit or perhaps like the ticking of a bomb. Ominous end with use of 3
His boot pushed off
And the bicycle ticked, ticked, ticked.
