'Valentine,' by Carol Ann Duffy (a modern poem)

Question 1

Complete the quotation:
Not… I give…

Answer 1

Not a red rose or a satin heart. // I give you an onion.

Question 2

Complete the quotation:
Here. It…

Answer 2

Here. / It will blind you with tears / like a lover.

Question 3

Complete the quotation:
Its fierce…

Answer 3

Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips.

Question 4

Complete the quotation:
Its platinum loops…

Answer 4

Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding ring, / if you like.

Question 5

Complete the quotation:
Its scent…

Answer 5

Its scent will cling to your fingers, / cling to your knife.

Question 6

What is the poem about?

Answer 6

Duffy gives her lover an onion on Valentine’s Day to show that romantic relationships can be positive, passionate, and painful.

Question 7

What inspired Duffy to write this poem?

Answer 7

A radio presenter challenged Duffy to write a truly original poem for Valentine’s Day.

Question 8

How would you describe Duffy’s sexuality?

Answer 8

Duffy is openly bi-sexual.

Question 9

How has Duffy’s love-life been unconventional?

Answer 9

At 16, she began a serious relationship with a 39 year old male poet.