Poetry Anthology - London + Living Space

Question 1

Point 1 + quotations:

Answer 1

The theme of place in both poems is presented as a being an area of danger and chaos where people struggle to survive.

‘Living Space’
- “Beams / balance crookedly”
- “The whole structure leans dangerously / Towards the miraculous”

‘London’
- there is “weakness” and “woe” prevalent “In every cry of every Man, / In every cry of Infant’s fear”
- “charter’d street”

Question 2

Point 2 + quotations:

Answer 2

In both poems, the theme of place is presented through the harsh living conditions and the suffering of those that live in them.

‘Living Space’
- “squeezed”
- “slanted”, “crookedly” and “leans”

‘London’
- “Man”, “Infants”, “Chimney-sweepers”, “Soldiers” and “youthful Harlot’s”
- “Chimney-sweeper’s cry” which “every black’ning Church appals”

Question 3

Point 3 + quotations:

Answer 3

Place in ‘Living Space’ although it is presented as being an area of danger and chaos, place in ‘Living Space’ is presented as also being an area in which hope can flourish. In contrast, the place and setting of ‘London’ is presented as being a continually oppressive force on those vulnerable in society with there being no place for hope.

‘Living Space’
- “eggs”
- “fragile curves of white / hung out over the dark edge of the slanted Universe”
- “bright, thin walls of faith”

‘London’
“the youthful Harlot’s curse / Blasts the new born Infant’s tear,”