The Cockroach Flashcards
Meaning:
Extended metaphor (EM) that runs throughout the poem The reflection between the cockroach and his life and the stages of life that people go through.
First 4 lines
Sonnet an EM of his life shown as he observes insect. EM shown by word ‘Giant’ shows how closely he was watching. Kinaesthetic imagery describes move. Early human life when everything is safe/secure. Insect satisfied on familiar ground like with childhood, safe/known surroundings.
Second 4 lines
Kinaesthetic imagery, change in pace, metaphorical, ‘crooked path’ adolescence. ‘Circling’ taking risk/experimenting, teenage. ‘Scratch wings’ how a man succumbs to stress/pressure/responsibility EM
Final 6 lines
Enjambment, sudden cessation of activity, cockroach uncertain where to go like philosophical thought of mission in life. Need to blame circumstances and surroundings on actions ‘I don’t know’ pretending not to know how situation occurred EM. Sonnet poet makes EM meaning clear at end.
