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Walcott expresses powerful emotions in this poem - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2013
Question 1
Walcott expresses powerful emotions in this poem. Choose one emotion present in the poem and briefly explain how it is conveyed. Make reference to the text in suppor... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Walcott expresses powerful emotions in this poem - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2013
Step 1
Choose one emotion present in the poem and briefly explain how it is conveyed.
Answer
One predominant emotion in Walcott's "The Fist" is the profound pain of love. This emotion is conveyed through vivid imagery and contrasting feelings of brightness and darkness. The opening lines depict a heart that is 'clenched' and gasping for 'brightness,' which illustrates the struggle and confinement associated with love. The line 'When have I never loved the pain of love?' captures the paradoxical nature of this feeling, suggesting an intimate relationship with suffering. Moreover, the mention of 'mania' and 'the ledge of unreason' evokes a sense of madness and precariousness that often accompanies deep emotional connections. This intricate portrayal invites the reader to explore the complexities of love, marked by both joy and agony.
Step 2
Write a brief personal response to the final line of the poem.
Answer
The final line, 'Hold hard then, heart. This way at least you live,' resonates deeply with the struggles of maintaining emotional resilience. It implies a fierce perseverance in the face of emotional turmoil. Personally, I find this line empowering, suggesting that despite the pain and chaos of love, there is a way to endure and find meaning. It encourages an acceptance of emotional vulnerability, reminding me that embracing life's challenges is essential to truly living. The repetition of 'hold hard' serves as a poignant motivator to confront heartache with strength and resolve.