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A. THE UNDERGROUND There we were in the vaulted tunnel running, You in your going-away coat speeding ahead And me, the like a fleet god gaining Upon you before you turned to a read Or some new white flower japped with crimson As the coat flapped wild and button after button Sprang off and fell in a trail Between the Underground and the Albert Hall - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2014
Question 1
A. THE UNDERGROUND There we were in the vaulted tunnel running, You in your going-away coat speeding ahead And me, the like a fleet god gaining Upon you bef... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A. THE UNDERGROUND There we were in the vaulted tunnel running, You in your going-away coat speeding ahead And me, the like a fleet god gaining Upon you before you turned to a read Or some new white flower japped with crimson As the coat flapped wild and button after button Sprang off and fell in a trail Between the Underground and the Albert Hall - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2014
Step 1
In your opinion, why did the poet choose an underground setting for this poem? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
Answer
The underground setting in Heaney's poem serves as a metaphor for the complexities of love and relationships. Firstly, it creates a sense of intimacy that is often found in close quarters, allowing for deeper emotional exchanges. The imagery of being in a 'vaulted tunnel' suggests a space that is both confining and protective, reflecting the dual nature of romantic relationships. The poem’s description gives the reader a sense of being trapped yet secure, mirroring the commitments and entanglements of love. The passage speaks to the shared experience of navigating together through life’s paths, which is evident when the poem describes following each other through the dark spaces of the underground. Heaney's choice of this setting accentuates the depths of emotional connection, emphasizing that true affection often thrives in hidden places, away from the prying eyes of the world.
Step 2
Why do you think the poet compares himself to Hansel from the fairytale Hansel and Gretel in the above poem? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
Answer
Heaney’s comparison of himself to Hansel taps into themes of guidance and vulnerability within a relationship. Hansel's journey was fraught with challenges, yet he remained determined to find his way home. In the poem, Heaney echoes this sentiment by depicting himself as 'Hansel' navigating the 'moonlit stones.' This suggests that he feels a sense of protection for his partner, much like Hansel’s role as a protector in the story. Additionally, it reflects the idea of childhood innocence and the often precarious path of love. By invoking this comparison, Heaney may also be alluding to the duality of love—requiring both bravery and wisdom—while highlighting the inherent dangers couples face together, akin to the challenges posed in the fairytale.
Step 3
Choose two lines or phrases from the poem that appeal to you and explain your choice.
Answer
One compelling phrase is 'Our echoes die in that corridor and now', which captures the ephemeral nature of moments in a relationship. This line evokes a sense of fleeting intimacy and longing, emphasizing how memories can fade yet remain impactful. Another significant line is 'Bared and tense as I am, all attention'. It reveals vulnerability and anticipation, conveying how the speaker is completely tuned in to their partner, showcasing the depths of emotional investment. Both phrases encapsulate a blend of sensuality and introspection that resonates deeply with the reader, allowing them to grasp the complexities of love.