The prelude

Question 1

1.

Poem’s form

Answer 1

This extract is a first person narrative. It sounds personal and describes a turning point in the poet’s life. The use of blank verse (unrhymed voice in iambic pentameter) makes it sound serious and unimportant, and the regular rhythm makes it sound like a natural speech.

Question 2

Poem’s structure

Answer 2

There are three main sections in the extract. In the first, the tone is fairly light and carefree. There’s a distinct change when the mountain appears- the tone becomes darker and more fearful. In the final section, the narrator reflects on how the experience has changed him.

Question 3

Poem’s themes

Answer 3

• Power of nature
• Power of memory