Storm on the Island - Seamus Heaney (1939-2013) Flashcards
Who is the author of ‘Storm on the Island’?
Seamus Heaney
In what year was ‘Storm on the Island’ published?
1966
What is the primary theme of ‘Storm on the Island’?
The power of nature and human vulnerability
True or False: ‘Storm on the Island’ is written in free verse.
True
Fill in the blank: The poem explores the relationship between ______ and the islanders.
nature
What literary device is predominantly used in ‘Storm on the Island’?
Imagery
What is the setting of ‘Storm on the Island’?
An isolated island off the coast of Ireland
Which natural phenomenon is central to the poem’s conflict?
A storm
Short Answer: How does the speaker describe the island’s landscape?
The speaker describes it as barren and exposed to harsh weather.
What emotion does the poem evoke regarding the islanders’ experience?
Fear and resilience
True or False: The poem suggests that the islanders are completely at the mercy of nature.
True
What is the tone of ‘Storm on the Island’?
Foreboding and reflective
Which technique does Heaney use to convey the storm’s intensity?
Personification
Multiple Choice: What is the significance of the phrase ‘we are prepared’ in the poem? A) It shows confidence B) It indicates denial C) It reflects a false sense of security
A) It shows confidence
Fill in the blank: The poem reflects a _______ between human beings and nature.
tension
What does the storm symbolize in the poem?
The uncontrollable forces of nature
Short Answer: How does the poem’s structure contribute to its meaning?
The structure reflects the chaos and unpredictability of the storm.
True or False: The poem ends with a sense of resolution and calm.
False
What imagery is used to describe the storm’s impact?
Destructive and violent imagery
Multiple Choice: Which element of the poem highlights the isolation of the island? A) The storm B) The island’s geography C) The community
B) The island’s geography
Fill in the blank: The poem emphasizes the _______ of human life in the face of nature’s power.
fragility
Short Answer: What does the speaker imply about human preparation for natural disasters?
Human preparation is limited and often inadequate.
True or False: Heaney uses colloquial language to reflect the voice of the islanders.
True
What does the repeated use of the word ‘storm’ signify throughout the poem?
The inevitability and recurring nature of conflict with the environment
Multiple Choice: How does the poem portray the relationship between the islanders and their environment? A) Symbiotic B) Hostile C) Indifferent
A) Symbiotic
Fill in the blank: The poem is often interpreted as a commentary on _______ and its effects on humanity.
conflict