Storm On The Island Flashcards
What does the quote “We are prepared: we build our houses squat, Sink walls in rock and roof them with good slate.” Show
These lines show the resilience of the islanders who have built sturdy homes to withstand the power of nature. The alliteration reinforces how solid the structures are, and the caesura suggests they are prepared to stop the oncoming storm.
What does the quote This wizened earth has never troubled us With hay, so, as you see, there are no stacks Or stooks that can be lost.” Show
The earth is described as “wizened” or aged, and the lack of crops suggests the harsh, barren landscape the islanders must endure. The personification of the earth shows its age and wisdom, demonstrating the theme of the power of nature.
What does the quote “— Nor are there trees Which might prove company when it blows full Blast: you know what I mean — leaves and branches Can raise a tragic chorus in a gale” show
The absence of trees removes any potential “company” during the storm, as trees would create an eerie, chorus-like sound, reminding the islanders of the storm’s intensity. The storm is referred to as “it”, which could indicate that it is an abstract threat.
What does the quote “So that you can listen to the thing you fear Forgetting that it pummels your house too.” Show
Nature’s power is personified as a violent force “pummelling” the islanders’ homes. The second person pronoun “you” is inclusive, drawing the reader into the danger.
What does the quote “… spits like a tame cat
Turned savage.” Show
The sea, which could be “company”, becomes a threat during the storm, as the simile of an angry cat conveys the power of its spray. Nature is untamed.
What does the quote “We just sit tight while wind dives And strafes invisibly …” show
Heaney describes the wind with military imagery, “diving” and “strafing” like fighter planes, bombarding the islanders with its invisible force. The power of nature is similarly destructive.
What does the quote “Strange, it is a huge nothing we fear.” Show
Despite the storm’s intensity, the poet comments on the strangeness of fearing something as intangible as “empty air” or “nothing”.
What does the quote “Space is a salvo, We are bombarded by the empty air.” Show
The use of military terms like “salvo” and “bombarded” personify the storm as a violent, aggressive force attacking the islanders. By using this technique, the poet makes the attack seem personal.
What does the quote “Exploding comfortably down on the cliffs” show
The oxymoron “exploding comfortably” highlights the islanders’ ambivalent relationship with the sea, which can be both comforting and dangerous.
What is the form of the poem
-The poem is written in a blank verse
-the poem is all in one stanza, it’s compact and sturdy like the houses
What is the structure of the poem
-The poem shifts from security to fear
-“But no” is a turning point with the slow pace of the monosyllabic phrase and the caesura reflecting the last moments of calm
