Valentine Flashcards
theme
methaporical onion represents a real realtionship which can make a lover cry, highlights the negative as well as the positive effects of a deep and loving relationship
Form
written in free verse
“Not a red rose or a satin heart”
“Not a cute card or a kissogram”
Traditional idea as suggested from title is subverted
By inserting a negative, the speaker is effectively dismissing traditional symbols of love and instead presents an object much more representative
“I give you an onion”
Emphasises the importance of this gift being accepted by their lover
“here”
“take it”
Establishes the forceful character of the speaker
“a moon wrapped in brown paper”
The allusion to the moon reminds us of more traditional notations of romance
brown paper refers to texture & colour of the outer layer of onion as well as reminding us that real romantic gifts do not need to be embellished or concealed within expensive wrapping
What is onion symbolised as in the start of the poem
The onion symbolises a postive aspect of love since it represents refreshing honesty and optimism, often experinced at the beginning of a relationship
“It promises light”
Indicates that this will be an enriching and fulfulling relationship for both parties. Conveys the optimism and hopefulness of lovers embarking on a new relationship
“Like the careful undressing of love”
sexual aspect of their relationship and also the growth of their emotional bond which the peeling away of clothes and layers of personality may bring
“careful”
suggests tenderness, affection, warmth and sensitivity between the lovers as they gradually allow external barriers to come down and expose their trueselves
“It will blind you with tears like a lover”
conveys the idea that this relationship may occasionally cause pain and make you cry, just as getting too close to a chopped onion brings tears
Speaker reminds us that onion, like a lover, can elicit pain and distress as well as love and passion
“It will make your reflection a wobbling photo of grief
This emphasises the vulnerability and danger people expose themselves to when they submit wholly and completely to a romatic relationship and reminds us of its distructive potential
“i am trying to be truthful”
speaker is trying to justify all that has been said and stresses the desire for honesty within the relationship.
change of tone- more brutal & threatening
!st person conveys the strength of feeling in the speaker in their desire for a relationship which is based on honesty
“Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips”
The lover is attempting to articulate not only the romantic, postive aspects of love its more negative, darker associations
Also, continued allusion of the taste of an onion which, liek some relationships is strong, unpleasent and difficult to erase
“Faithful”
“Possessive”
Has postive connotations of a trusting shared relationship
signals a change in the relationship as it suggests an element of jealousy, distrust, control and insecruity
