Poems-War Photographer

Question 1

“Running children in a nightmare heat”

Answer 1

This quote is designed to make the reader understand the intensity of the suffering caused by war.
Duffy refers to children to remind the reader of the innocent lives affected by war.

Question 2

“Spools of suffering set out in ordered rows”

Answer 2

Imagery/metaphor.
This quote hints at the photographer’s efforts to make sense of and order something so horrific.
There is a contrast between what the photographer tries to do and the reality of conflict.

Question 3

“The reader’s eyeballs prick / with tears, between the bath and pre-lunch beers”

Answer 3

This quote shows the comfort of those at home who are not directly affected by war.
This image contrasts with the images of pain that run throughout the poem.

Question 4

“All flesh is grass”

Answer 4

Biblical imagery and a metaphor.
This quote points out the scale of bloodshed and creates a gruesome image in the readers’ head.
This is also a line from the Bible that means human life is temporary.

Question 5

“A hundred agonies in black and white”

Answer 5

This quote is designed to make the reader understand the intensity of the suffering caused by war.

Question 6

Comparisons-Conflicting Emotions

Answer 6

Kamikaze.
Remains.
The Emigree.

Question 7

Effect/Reality of Conflict

Answer 7

Remains.
Bayonet Charge.
Poppies.