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Fair Daffodils, we weep to see; You haste away so soon; As yet the early-rising sun Has not attain’d his noon - Leaving Cert English - Question 1. - 2019
Question 1.
Fair Daffodils, we weep to see; You haste away so soon; As yet the early-rising sun Has not attain’d his noon. Stay, stay, Until the hasting day Has run; But to the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Fair Daffodils, we weep to see; You haste away so soon; As yet the early-rising sun Has not attain’d his noon - Leaving Cert English - Question 1. - 2019
Step 1
Identify three images used by the poet in this poem. Which one of your chosen images do you find the most appealing? Explain your answer.
Answer
The three images I identify from the poem 'To Daffodils' are:
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The Daffodils: The poet refers to the daffodils as symbols of beauty and transience, embodying the fleeting nature of life.
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The Early-Rising Sun: The image of the sun that has not yet reached its noon signifies the beginning of something beautiful that will eventually fade.
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Morning Dew: The morning dew is ephemeral, likening life’s moments to something that disappears as quickly as it arrives.
Out of these, I find the image of the Daffodils most appealing. They represent beauty that is vivid and alive, yet tragically short-lived. The vivid description evokes feelings of nostalgia and appreciation for nature's charm but also highlights the inevitability of loss, making it emotionally impactful.
Step 2
In your opinion, is this an optimistic or a pessimistic poem? Explain your answer with reference to the poem.
Answer
In my opinion, the poem 'To Daffodils' leans towards being pessimistic. It explores themes of fleeting beauty and the transient nature of life. The repetitive plea to 'stay' suggests a struggle against the inevitability of time and decay. The comparison of life to 'the summer’s rain' or 'pearls of morning’s dew' emphasizes that these moments are not just beautiful but also ephemeral and elusive. While there is an appreciation for beauty, it is also tinged with sadness due to the understanding that it will soon be gone. Therefore, the tone reflects more of a lament for what is lost rather than celebrating what is present.
Step 3
Imagine you are the poet, Robert Herrick. You have been invited to talk to a Leaving Certificate class about your poem, 'To Daffodils'. In your talk you should explain how you suggest the rapid passage of time in the poem, and help the class to understand the meaning of the poem.
Answer
In my talk, I would start by discussing the imagery in 'To Daffodils' that captures the fleeting nature of life. The reference to the daffodils being in bloom only briefly illustrates how beauty is temporary. I would explain how the early-rising sun that hasn't reached noon represents the early stages of life, hinting at the inevitability of decay as time progresses.
I would delve into how I use metaphors, like comparing life to morning dew, which glistens beautifully but evaporates quickly, reinforcing the message that moments we cherish are remarkably short-lived. By articulating these observations, I aim to help the class grasp the underlying message about appreciating beauty, while also acknowledging the sadness of its transience.
Step 4
Do you find this poem easy or difficult to understand? Explain your response, supporting your answer with reference to both the language and the content of the poem.
Answer
I find the poem 'To Daffodils' to be moderately easy to understand. The language used is quite accessible, yet it carries a profound depth. Words such as 'weep', 'hasten', and 'decay' evoke strong emotional imagery, making the theme of transience clear. The poem adopts a conversational tone that allows readers to connect with the feelings expressed.
However, the underlying concepts may require deeper reflection. The juxtaposition of beauty against the inevitability of loss can be complex, prompting readers to ponder the nature of life itself. Thus, while the language is comprehensible, the thematic implications might demand more contemplation.
Step 5
Do you think the poet makes effective use of the natural world to teach readers a valuable lesson or lessons in the above poem? Give reasons for your response. Support your answer with reference to the poem.
Answer
Yes, I believe the poet effectively utilizes imagery from the natural world to impart valuable lessons in 'To Daffodils'. The daffodils serve as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of beauty and life. By depicting the flowers' short bloom period, the poet underscores the importance of cherishing transient moments.
The connection drawn between the daffodils and human life establishes an emotional parallel, encouraging readers to reflect on their experiences. The poem also highlights universal themes of time, loss, and appreciation, making it relevant to a wide audience. Thus, the poet's incorporation of nature not only enhances the imagery but also enriches the poem's moral teachings.