Valentine, by Carol Anne Duffy Flashcards
1
Q
How is this poem structured?
A
- first person narrative
- written in free verse –> helps reinforce its unconventional approach to love and to provide a warning message to lovers
- no rhyming scheme
2
Q
Summary
A
- describes an unusual valentines day present for a lover - an onion
- the poem explains why it is a powerful gift of love, much more than cliched gifts
- the onion becomes a metaphor for love
3
Q
Where is Duffy from?
A
Glasgow, Scotland and is currently the UK’s first female Poet Laureate
Was educated in Strafford
4
Q
When was she first published?
A
15
5
Q
Key quotations
A
‘Not a red rose or a satin heart’
‘It will blind you with tears like a lover’
‘Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips’
‘Platinum loops shrink to a wedding ring’
6
Q
Why was this poem written?
A
Written in response to a challenge from a radio presenter to write an original poem for valentines day.
7
Q
When was it written?
A
1993
