Ae fond kiss- meaning and language Flashcards
Meaning of poem
This poem is about the parting of two lovers.
The speaker laments their parting and distance saying goodbye but also being upset about their departure.
What extended metaphor is used?
‘star of hope and cheerful twinkle’ contrast with ‘Dark despair’
Effect of extended metaphor
Captures the strong contrast between hope and despair.
Intensifies the reader’s sense of despair and loss
‘Star of hope’
Represents a small degree of hope.
Can be enough to guide him forward into the future.
What antithesis is used?
‘peace, enjoyment love and pleasure’
Contrasts with
‘Warning sighs and groans’
Effect of antithesis
Dual nature of love is shown as the speaker feels depressed but wishes their lover well.
Love as painful but fulfilling.
What anaphora is used?
‘Ae fond kiss, and then we sever’
‘Ae farewell alas forever’
Effect of anaphora
Burns relates his emotions to the reader evoking sympathy
Farewell began saturated with sadness but ends in a positive nature
suggests speaker is ready to say his final goodbye
What superlatives are used?
‘first and fairest’
‘best and dearest’
Effect of superlatives
first drawn to her beauty now her deep love.
Exclamation marks upbeat reminder of what used to be
Title
emphasises the profound adoration shared between the protagonists. Translates to A fond kiss.
What loves are presented?
Pains associated with loosing someone you love
Generous love as he begins focusing on himself but ends shifting attention to her experience
