Storm On The Island Flashcards
1
Q
‘We are prepared’
A
Line falls at the start of the poem, showing how humans often believe they are ready to face the extremes of nature. Rest of poem goes on to prove they are not.
2
Q
‘Pummels/Exploding/Strafes/Bombarding’
A
Verbs related to conflict makes nature sound like an attacking army. Motif is repeated and evokes the sheer power of nature.
3
Q
‘The flung spray hits the very windows/spits like a tame cat turned savage’
A
Simile – nature is like an animal we think we can control - can become wild and attack if we underestimate it.
4
Q
Structure
A
Blank verse (unrhyming lines with five beats in each) creates a natural, conversational rhythm which makes the poem feel like the narrator is talking to us. Lack of rhyme could also mirror unpredictability of nature.
5
Q
Idea/Perspective/Context (AO3)
A
As well as realistic portrayal of destructive power of nature, poem could be a metaphor for communities under attack (war, civil war, conflict).
6
Q
Links
A
The Prelude
London
Exposure
