Letters from Yorkshire

Question 1

Form

Answer 1

The poem is written in free verse which makes it flow like natural speech or a letter. Enjambment allows line and stanzas to flow into one another which reflects how the seasons constantly change. The use of three line stanzas (tersets) instead of an even number lines makes the poem look disjointed and highlights how the narrator feels disconnected from the man.

Question 2

Structure

Answer 2

In the first three stanzas, the narrator shows how she and the man live different lives. Despite this, it becomes clear in the final two stanzas that they have a deep connection.

Question 3

Physical verbs

Answer 3

A series of active verbs (eg. ‘digging’, ‘planting’) describe the letter writer’s physical work in his garden. They are ordinary but satisfying actions that emphasise his connection with nature: “In February, digging his garden, planting his potatoes”.

Question 4

Contrasts

Answer 4

The narrator presents her lifestyle as different to the letter writer’s- he works outside while she sits at a computer. Whilst he sees his life as ordinary she romanticises it and sees her own life as inferior: “..me with my heartful of headline| feeding words on to a blank screen.”.

Question 5

Language about communication.

Answer 5

Communication bridges the distance between them and emphasises the things they have in common. Figurative language suggests that their connection is almost spiritual: ‘our souls tap out messages across the icy miles.’

Question 6

Tone

Answer 6

The poem has a tone of longing and connection, The speaker clearly misses the man that she is writing to but their connection is evident in the last line.

Question 7

Which poem should it be compared with?

Answer 7

You could compare this poem with the poem ‘Follower’ as both narrators look up to someone whose life is connected with nature.