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Based on your reading of the above poem, outline the impact the poet claims mobile phones have on our lives today - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2017
Question 1
Based on your reading of the above poem, outline the impact the poet claims mobile phones have on our lives today. Support your answer with reference to the poem. 2... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Based on your reading of the above poem, outline the impact the poet claims mobile phones have on our lives today - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2017
Step 1
Outline the impact the poet claims mobile phones have on our lives today.
Answer
The poem 'For We Shall Stare at Mobile Phones' by Brian Bilston suggests that mobile phones have a profound and negative impact on our daily lives. Firstly, the poet highlights how streets and landmarks become secondary as individuals focus on their devices, illustrating a decline in genuine human interaction and appreciation of the physical world around us. Phrases like 'Streets shrug as we roam back to our homes' indicate that surroundings are often ignored in favor of screen time.
Furthermore, Bilston addresses the diminishing value of conversation and connection, showcasing how communication becomes superficial. 'Reading gets shelved, poetry and prose' implies that literature and meaningful interactions are sacrificed for distraction by electronics. The repetitive lines "For we shall stare at mobile phones" reinforce the monotony and dependence fostered by these devices,
Finally, the concluding remark about dying and the hope that mobile phones will be 'thrown into the pit' demonstrates a longing for a return to a less distracted way of living, suggesting that the poet views mobile phones as barriers to authentic experiences.
Step 2
Do you like or dislike the above poem? Explain your answer with reference to the poem.
Answer
I appreciate the poem for its humorous yet poignant critique of society's relationship with mobile phones. Bilston employs a light-hearted tone through repetition and clever imagery, making serious observations about modern life approachable. The use of phrases such as 'we shall stare at mobile phones' brings attention to the absurdity of our distractions, which many can relate to.
However, I find myself disliking the inevitability conveyed in the poem; it highlights a resigned acceptance of our mobile-centric lifestyle. The line, 'And when we die, let us hope that they’re thrown' suggests a grim outlook on our dependency. Despite its humor, the underlying message might evoke discomfort as it calls for reflection on our habits. This complex mix of humor and criticism makes the poem both engaging and thought-provoking.