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ADLESTROP Yes - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2006
Question 1
ADLESTROP Yes. I remember Adlestrop - the name, because one afternoon Of the express-train drew up there Unwantedly. It was late June. The steam hissed. Someone cl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:ADLESTROP Yes - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2006
Step 1
What, in your view, do we learn about Adlestrop from reading this poem?
Answer
The poem "Adlestrop" evokes a sense of nostalgia and tranquility associated with the village. From the text, we learn that Adlestrop is depicted as an idyllic and serene place, untouched by the chaos of urban life. The mentions of natural elements like willows, grass, and flowers create a vivid image of a peaceful rural setting. The line 'No one left and no one came' emphasizes the stillness and isolation of Adlestrop, suggesting it is a haven from the fast-paced world. Overall, the poem conveys feelings of isolation, beauty, and contemplative quietude that characterize Adlestrop.
Step 2
How does the poem create the feeling that it is both hot and quiet on the railway platform in Adlestrop when the train stops there?
Answer
The poem creates a palpable sense of heat and stillness through its vivid imagery and word choices. Phrases like 'the steam hissed' suggest the presence of heat emanating from the train, while descriptions of the surroundings, such as 'willows, willow-herb, and grass', evoke a languid summer atmosphere. The lack of movement—'No one left and no one came'—reinforces the quietness of the scene, making the reader feel the oppressive calm that often accompanies hot weather. Moreover, the imagery of 'high cloudlets in the sky' contributes to the overwhelming sensation of stillness and heat on the platform.
Step 3
Write out a phrase or line from the poem that particularly appeals you and explain what you especially like about it.
Answer
One line that particularly appeals to me is 'And for that minute a blackbird sang'. This line encapsulates the essence of fleeting beauty and the simplicity of nature. The mention of the blackbird singing amidst the stillness captures a moment of joy and life in an otherwise quiet scene. I appreciate how this contrasts with the quietness surrounding it, reminding us that even in moments of isolation, there can be bursts of beauty and vibrancy. It reflects a profound connection to nature and the appreciation of small details that one might overlook.
Step 4
Imagine that you were on the train on the day it stopped in Adlestrop. Write out a diary entry describing the experience.
Answer
Dear Diary,
Today was a day of unexpected beauty. As the train rolled to a stop in Adlestrop, I hardly knew what to expect. The air was thick with warmth, and the scent of grass and wildflowers wafted through the open windows, inviting me to step outside.
As I disembarked, I found myself on an empty platform, echoes of the train’s departure lingering in the air. I looked around, and the tranquility of the surroundings enveloped me. The sunlight bathed everything in a soft glow, and the only sound was that of a blackbird, singing its sweet song.
With no rush to be anywhere, I wandered off the platform, allowing the serenity to wash over me. The willows swayed gently, and I felt as though time had slowed down. It was a moment I would cherish, a small snippet of paradise in my hectic life.
All too soon, it was time to leave, but I held onto that fleeting moment of peace as the train carried me away.
Until next time, [Your Name]
Step 5
What do you think of this view of the poem? Support your answer by reference to the text.
Answer
I believe the poem carries a significant message about the value of slowing down and appreciating life's simpler moments, especially in our rushed modern existence. Lines like 'No one left and no one came' speak to the need for solitude and moments of reflection, which are often lost in our busy lives. The tranquil imagery throughout the poem is a call to reconnect with nature and one's surroundings. In our hurried world, the poem serves as a reminder to embrace stillness, find solace in nature, and appreciate the beauty that can be found in quiet moments.
Step 6
Describe the kind of music you would choose and explain your choice by referring to the words and ideas in the poem.
Answer
To accompany a reading of this poem, I would choose soft acoustic guitar music with gentle melodies. This type of music embodies the tranquility and simplicity reflected in the poem, enhancing its themes of nature and peace. The serene sounds would mirror the imagery of 'willows' and 'meadowsweet,' creating a harmonious atmosphere. Additionally, instrumental music without lyrics would allow the listener to focus fully on the poem's words, much like the stillness represented in Adlestrop. This musical backdrop would elevate the reader's experience, inviting them to pause and reflect on the swift beauty of the moment described.