Anthology - Living Space

Question 1

‘There is just not enough/straight lines’

Answer 1

Emphatic adverb ‘just’ signifies the chaotic nature of the slums, reflecting the chaotic nature of society post 9/11

Question 2

‘Nails clutch’

Answer 2

The personification connotes that the nails are only just keeping the structures intact, possibly highlighting how society may be about to fall apart.

Question 3

‘Leans dangerously/towards the miraculous’

Answer 3

The adjective ‘dangerously’ inflicts fear which contracts the word ‘miraculous’ which inflicts the feeling of awe, implying that it is a miracle that the structure remains standing. Could be reflective of society.

Question 4

‘Dared to place/those eggs in a wire basket’

Answer 4

The eggs could be a symbol of new life meaning that they could also be a symbol for a hope of a change in society. Could also reflect the fragility of the human condition and society.

Question 5

Context

Answer 5

The exploration of faith could reflect the agnostic questioning within society. Also, the emphasis in fragility could be suggestive of the fragmented state of the world post 9/11.

Question 6

Poet

Answer 6

Imtiaz Dharker

Question 7

Structure

Answer 7

The poem is written in 22 short lines, highlighting the chaotic and fragility of the structures described. The enjambement also highlights the disorder within the slums.