Nettles Flashcards
“That regiment of spite behind the shed”
Scannell presents his great dislike for war through his negatively portrayed, repeated metaphorical war imagery, which implies that war both scars physically and emotionally, suggesting that Scannell cannot let go of his past which was filled with war and violence, it is mentally bound to him.
“White blisters beaded on his tender skin”
Scannell uses the injuries of the speakers child as a metaphor of the great pain and suffering that war induces, and the destructive effect it has on loved ones.
“And went outside and slashed in fury with it”
Scannell exemplifies that violence invokes more violence, fueled by the emotions of hate and revenge. Scannell also presents the strong family love between the speaker and his child, creating a tone of protection and safeguarding.
“My son would often feel those sharp wounds again”
Scannell presents the idea of impending violence, suggesting that violence and war is inevitable and Scannell can never escape his own traumatic experiences in war. Moreover, it also evokes a sense of letting go of your attachments, as the speaker knows they won’t be able to protect there child forever.
