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On the day of the explosion Shadows pointed towards the pithead: In the sun the slagheap slept - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2018
Question 1
On the day of the explosion Shadows pointed towards the pithead: In the sun the slagheap slept. Down the lane came men in pit-boots Coughing oath-edged talk and pip... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:On the day of the explosion Shadows pointed towards the pithead: In the sun the slagheap slept - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2018
Step 1
What impression of the miners do you get from reading the opening four stanzas of the above poem?
Answer
In the opening four stanzas of the poem, we gain an impression of the miners as weary yet resilient individuals who are deeply connected to their environment. The imagery of 'men in pit-boots' coupled with 'coughing oath-edged talk and pipe-smoke' suggests a hard, laborious lifestyle marked by both camaraderie and a tough exterior.
The description of the children—'One chased after rabbits; lost them; Came back with a head of lark's eggs'—highlights a simplicity and innocence that contrasts vividly with their surroundings, emphasizing the miners' connection to nature. Additionally, references to 'Fathers, brothers, nicknames, laughter' paint a portrait of community, suggesting that despite the harsh realities of mining life, there is warmth and familiarity among the workers.
Overall, these stanzas forge a connection between the miners and their world, reflecting not only their struggles but also the small joys they find within a tough existence.
Step 2
Identify a striking image from the first eight stanzas of the poem. Explain why you find this image striking.
Answer
One striking image from the first eight stanzas is 'One showing the eggs unbroken.' This image stands out because it symbolizes fragility amidst the harshness of the miners' lives. The act of showing unbroken eggs—a representation of potential life and hope—creates a stark contrast to the dangerous nature of mining itself.
Furthermore, it encapsulates a moment of tenderness and resilience, suggesting that even in times of upheaval and tragedy, there exists a glimmer of normalcy and care. This image is powerful as it speaks to the idea that life continues despite adversity, highlighting a deeper emotional resonance within the poem.
Step 3
Based on your study of “The Explosion”, what message do you think is conveyed by the image of the unbroken eggs in the final line of the poem?
Answer
The image of the unbroken eggs in the final line of the poem serves as a potent symbol of hope and continuity. In the context of the poem, which discusses the sudden and tragic explosion that disrupts the lives of miners, the unbroken eggs denote the fragility of life and the possibility of rebirth.
This culminates in a profound message: despite the chaos and destruction that can abruptly alter one’s existence, there remains a delicate beauty that is preserved within family, memory, and the simple joys of life. The eggs, as a metaphor, remind us that life persists even in the face of tragedy, embodying the resilience of human spirit and the enduring nature of familial bonds.