Don Paterson Poem Purposes

Question 1

Purpose of the poem “The Circle” -

Answer 1

• We must accept our flaws to achieve happiness/ perfection.

Question 2

Purpose of the poem “Waking With Russell” -

Answer 2

• Other people can give us a renewed sense of purpose and hope to our lives.

Question 3

Purpose of the poem “The Ferryman’s Arms” -

Answer 3

• That we have competing sides to our personality.

Question 4

Purpose of the poem “11:00 Baldoven” -

Answer 4

• To remind us that when experiencing something for the first time it is inevitable to feel anxious/ nervous.

Question 5

Purpose of the poem “Rain” -

Answer 5

To remind us that no matter how bad things feel, second chances are always available.

Question 6

Purpose of the poem “Nil Nil” -

Answer 6

Everything declines and is forgotten as time moves on.