Poems-Storm On The Island

Question 1

“We are prepared: we build our houses squat”

Answer 1

Emphatic opening line and caesura.
The poem opens with a strong statement. This emphasises the confidence and sense of security of the Islanders.
The use of caesura (break in the line) reinforces this because it conveys the speaker’s certainty as well as the sense that they are safely barricaded in their homes.

Question 2

“You can listen to the thing you fear…”

Answer 2

“You can listen to the thing you fear / Forgetting that it pummels your house too.”
Danger imagery.

Question 3

“Spits like a tame cat / Turned savage”

Answer 3

Simile.
This gives the impression that the storm is wild and uncontrollable.
It also reminds readers that something that seems innocent can be deadly.

Question 4

“Strange, it is a huge nothing that we fear”

Answer 4

Juxtaposition and irony.
The juxtaposition of “huge nothing that we fear” in the final line highlights how strange the situation is. Despite huge physical preparations, ultimately it is only air, something that cannot even be seen or touched, that is frightening.
The contrast between “huge nothing” and “rock” at the start of the poem makes the storm seem even more menacing because human preparation is not sufficient protection.

Question 5

Comparisons-Unpleasant and/or powerful experiences

Answer 5

The Prelude.
Exposure.
London.
Remains.
Bayonet Charge.

Question 6

Comparisons-Power of nature vs power of humans

Answer 6

The Prelude.
Exposure.
Tissue.