Living Space - Imtiaz Dharker

Question 1

“Problem”

Answer 1

“That is the problem”

Dharker switches perspectives and takes the stereotypical Western perception of the slums being horrible contrasting her own embrace of the distinctive unsettled characteristic of the slums

Question 2

“Open seams”

Answer 2

“Nails clutch at open seams”

‘Open’ shows how there is a lack of protection and vulnerability. The personification of the ‘nails’ as ‘clutching’ reflects the residents and how there is opportunity for them. This is balanced by their desperation. Dangerous place

Question 3

“Miraculous”

Answer 3

“Leans dangerously towards the miraculous”

Juxtaposition shows how the residents hardship and efforts are for faith. The slums are still presented as dangerous but hold together by a miracle.

Question 4

“Wire basket”

Answer 4

“Eggs in a wire basket”

Juxtaposition of ‘eggs’ with ‘wire basket’. The eggs are an essential part of life but are ‘dared’ to be put in danger despite how precious they are. It shows how the residents faith survives all danger

Question 5

“Bright, thin”

Answer 5

“Bright, thin walls of faith”

Though the faith is thin and stretched across by the desperation that runs through the slums, they are bright which suggests a hopeful conclusion to the poem