From the Journal of a Disappointed Man

Question 1

Who is the speaker in From the Journal of a Disappointed Man?

Answer 1

Condescending tone to describe workmen he is observing
- clear separation between them as the speaker appears educated

Question 2

What are the key events in From the Journal of a Disappointed Man?

Answer 2

Describes workmen driving a pile into pier

Men reach a problem they can’t fix

Stare in silence before walking away, leaving the speaker alone with the pile

Question 3

Quote for a colloquial repetition in From the Journal of a Disappointed Man

Answer 3

“massive” “tired, so tired of the whole business”
- men aren’t invested in what they are doing, presumably influences how they move and act
- reminds the reader of the strength and determination these men must embody to complete their tasks

Question 4

Quote for a repetition of plosive sound in From the Journal of a Disappointed Man

Answer 4

“plier… plier… paraphernalia… pulleys”
- sense of power, effort of workmen
- plosives echo physical exertion of power
- sets opposition between the men and the speaker

Question 5

Quote for a metaphor in From a Journal of a Disappointed Man

Answer 5

“eclipse of interest”
- disappointment
- lack of resolution

Question 6

What is the structure of From the Journal of a Disappointed Man?

Answer 6

Juxtaposition is used to present two types of masculinity

Lack of resolution (the pile is in the air at the end)

Question 7

What is the tone in From the Journal of a Disappointed Man?

Answer 7

Sneering and snobbish tone of the speaker, although this is contrasted with ironic statements revealing his ignorance

Question 8

What is the form of From the Journal of a Disappointed Man?

Answer 8

First person dramatic monologue

Question 9

Themes in From the Journal of a Disappointed Man

Answer 9

Disappointment, uncertainty, failure

Labour and social class

Masculinity and social exc