Basking Shark Flashcards
“Room sized monster”
Emphasises the size of the shark to create the image of a massive scary monster.
“Matchbox brain”
This contrast the idea of a scary shark by emphasising the sharks lack of intelligence. This helps create the image of a big shark with a tiny brain.
“So who’s the monster?”
The rhetorical question also makes us think whether humanity or the shark are the true monster. MacCaig is also questioning his own philosophy
”For twenty seconds”
Maccaig realises humanity may be the true monster. Throughout the poem the shark is compared with a monster from humanity’s view, but the pause makes us think if the shark sees us as the true monster.
“Family tree”
The poet is looking back at evolution and see the he and the shark are on of the same. He begins to form the connection between himself and the shark. This creates the idea that everyone is connected through evolution.
“Swish up the dirt and, when it settles, a spring.”
The metaphor is describing Maccaigs thought process. When he bumped into the shark he was confused but know everything is clearer. Creates image of of the poet looking into muddy water and seeing himself reflected.
“Fling.”
The word choice shows he’s self deprecating and begins to think he is something evolution just threw out. He sees himself as less important and begins to understand the ways of evolution.
“Slime.”
He again is self deprecating. The word choice suggests we all came from the same place and emphasises the generic basis of our beginning. Creates the image that everyone and everything comes from the same place.
“Everything”
Shows us how unimportant humanity is and how humans aren’t actually better than any other species. Suggest everyone and everything created is equal.
“I met.”
MacCaig begins to change his tone. The word choice makes the shark seem more human and less dangerous. Creates the image of a friendly shark who MacCaig enjoys meeting.
