The Night Dances

Question 1

Context

Answer 1

Written in December 1962 during freezing winter in Fitzroy Avenue

Inspired by funny movements of Plath sleeping son Nicholas aged one

Question 2

Structure

Answer 2

Increasingly on rhymed couplets placement reminiscent of snow



Question 3

Form

Answer 3

‘ Path is talking to someone who will never answer

Question 4

Techniques

Answer 4

Poem opens with typically a bleak image of an irretrievable smile paternal pride or detachment

Black and white colour imagery
Light imagery

Dances gifts symbolism of innocence to the poet is in pain

Snow a symbol of coldness and isolation

Interrogative why am I giving these lamps plus rejects the various responsibilities wearing down upon her

Nature represented by lilies and calvert should bring her joy but instead she is completely detached their flash bears no relation