Prayer Before Birth Flashcards
Louis MacNiece
What is the overall theme of the poem ‘Prayer Before Birth’ by Louis MacNiece?
The overall theme is a plea for protection and guidance for the unborn child in a chaotic and violent world.
Fill in the blank: The speaker in the poem asks for ________ from the world’s cruelty.
safeguarding
What does the phrase ‘I am not yet born’ signify?
It signifies the speaker’s awareness of their impending existence and the vulnerabilities that come with it.
What does the speaker request in relation to ‘the evil of the world’ in the first stanza?
The speaker requests to be shielded from the evil of the world.
What does the imagery of ‘blood’ and ‘tears’ represent in the poem?
It represents the suffering and violence present in the world.
Fill in the blank: The speaker desires to be born with ________ for the pain of others.
compassion
What role does the concept of ‘innocence’ play in the poem?
Innocence is portrayed as something precious that needs protection from the harsh realities of life.
What does the speaker mean by wanting to be ‘delivered’?
It refers to the desire to be born safely and protected from harm.
What is the significance of the repetition in the poem?
Repetition emphasizes the urgency and depth of the speaker’s plea.
Fill in the blank: The poem can be interpreted as a commentary on the ________ of societal issues.
impact
What does the speaker wish to embody in terms of human qualities?
The speaker wishes to embody love, understanding, and empathy.
What does the speaker’s request for ‘silence’ imply?
It implies a desire for peace and a break from the chaos of the world.
True or False: The poem conveys a sense of resignation about the state of the world.
True
What is the effect of the poem’s tone on the reader?
The tone evokes empathy and reflection on the challenges faced by new life.
Fill in the blank: The poem addresses the ________ between innocence and the harsh realities of life.
tension
What does the phrase ‘the womb of the world’ suggest?
It suggests the nurturing yet potentially dangerous environment into which the child is born.
What lesson can be drawn from the poem regarding parenting?
Parents must be aware of the world’s dangers and strive to protect their children from them.
