Poetry - One Flesh

Question 1

Context for One Flesh

Answer 1

• Written 1966 by Traditionalist poet Elizabeth Jennings (1926-2001).
• She associated with “The Movement”, supporting simplistic poetry.
• She was a devout Roman Catholic, and suffered a mental illness.
• She was known to explore fundamental ideas like love, religion, and death.

Question 2

Summary of One Flesh

Answer 2

A commentary on the relationship of an older couple, who no longer physically connect, from the child’s perspective.

Question 3

Theme comparisons in One Flesh

Answer 3

Loss - Sick Grandfather

Question 4

Message of One Flesh

Answer 4

Effect of time

Question 5

Structure and form points for One Flesh

Answer 5

• Three stanzas - two people and a barrier.
• Even and regular - dull relationship.
• Iambic pentameter in some lines but not all.
• ‘Strangely apart yet strangely close together’ - tone change doesn’t fit with the rest of the poem.

Question 6

Language points for One Flesh

Answer 6

• book he holds unread - unable to concentrate, symbolising obstacles in life.
• how cool they lie, silence, eyes - sensory language.
• Biblical language - confession, chastity, One Flesh.