Basking Shark

Question 1

“To stub an oar on a rock where none should be,” STANZA 1

Answer 1

The rock is imagery for a shark although the shark is not directly confronted throughout the poem. This shows that it was completely unexpected and gives us the impression that the shark is tough and strong.

Question 2

“But not too often- though enough. I count as gain” STANZA 2

Answer 2

This suggests that at the time it was scary and confusing but beneficial after. It is the cliche what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger idea. These profound life experiences are life changing and important.

Question 3

“That room sized monster with a matchbox brain.” STANZA 2

Answer 3

This helps to emphasise the size of the shark in comparison to a room. It also shows us that these animals lack in intelligence.

Question 4

“This decedent townee Shook on the wrong branch of his family tree” STANZA 3

Answer 4

This suggests that all life defers to the same point and that all of humanity is connected to the natural world. This meaning that the writer understands his connection to the shark.

Question 5

“So who’s the monster? The thought made me grow pale” STANZA 5

Answer 5

The writer realises that he and humanity are just as dangerous as the shark, the realisation of this makes him feel ill. He know understands the darkness of humanity because of this experience.

Question 6

“For twenty seconds while, sail after sail, the tall fin slid away and then the tail.” STANZA 5

Answer 6

Emphasises the size of the shark as its fins are compared to sales on a ship. It is only a short amount of time before the shark had completely departed. The writer has a short but in depth moment of understanding