Letters Between Edward and Helen Thomas Flashcards
When did Edward Thomas die?
April 9th 1917
When was Helen’s postscript written?
April-June 1917
What is the purpose of Edward’s letter to Helen?
To educate her on what he’s been up to, and to comfort her (the letter is personal not public)
What type of greeting is “Dearest”?
Warm and affectionate
Where is Arras?
An area in France
What is the significance of Edward’s use of a poetic description of the artillery?
The poetic tone reassures Helen, makes her feel secure. (Descriptive simile)
Give an example of personification in the text
“Violated stark tree trunks”
Which oxymoron is used by Edward in the first paragraph?
The birds making love against the wounded soldiers in the trench
Give three examples of alliteration in a Edward’s first paragraph
“Cirrus clouds”
“Sun shone
“Bosh is beaten”
What is the significance of “ I am tired but resting”
It is a short sentence after a dramatic description
How does Edward end his description of Saturday?
It is affectionate and kind - “I hope you sleep no worse that I do”
Where is there a pragmatic language change?
“I slept jolly well” Jolly becomes more positive
What is significant about the ending of Edward’s letter?
Is seems rushed, but maintains affectionate
What is the purpose of Helen’s letter?
To prove her loyalty and patience to Edward, and to encourage him
What is important to note when reading Helen’s letter?
Edward never read it and it was returned back to her following his death
What does “my darling my own soul” suggest
That they are one in the same person
Give an example of a metaphor in Helen’s second paragraph
“This snow must be the last of this terrible winter”
What is the significance of “farewell and a God bless you”
The church was very significant in 18th century England
What does “Baba says ‘give Daddy 100 loves’” tell the reader?
They have children, a life and family.
How does the postscript begin and why is it significant?
“Beloved” - Helen doesn’t address anyone because she knows he won’t read it
Which technique is used in “darkness and despair and just nothingness and fear”
Polysyndeton - she is letting out all of her oppressed emotions
What is the significance of sibilance in the second paragraph?
Soft sounds introduce the theme of nature, mirroring Edwards poetic descriptions
What is important about “Do you remember!”
Exclamation instead of interrogative: she knows he can’t respond
What could be implied from “touched the moist green grass”
Helen can’t touch Edward anymore, so connects with him through nature
How do we know Helen isn’t coping?
“I am almost content”- she can’t quite carry on without him
What does the repetition of “content” signify?
Helen is repeating it to try and convince herself that she is okay when in reality she is not
