Symbolism

Question 1

How does MacCaig use symbolism to develop central ideas in his poetry?

Answer 1

MaCaig uses people/objects/places as symbols to explore human relationships and in doing so makes us re-evaluate our own view

Question 2

Basking Shark - The Shark

Answer 2

The shark represents the apparently primitive aspect of nature, however MacCaig’s reflections challenge our perception of our superiority

Question 3

Visiting Hour - Flower Metaphor

Answer 3

The “withered hand trembles on it’s stalk” symbolises the fragility of human life and makes us consider our own mortality

Question 4

Assisi - beggar

Answer 4

The contrast between the inner spiritual beauty and the outer physical appearance of the beggar makes us reflect on appearance against reality

Question 5

Memorial - Imagery

Answer 5

“carousel of language” represents the vitality of relationships and communication he can’t recapture provoking thoughts of finality and loss

Question 6

Sounds of the day - Bangle of ice

Answer 6

“the bangle of ice….numb” represents the pain and deadening effect of loss which makes us consider love as a destructive force