Aunt Julia- Stanza 4

Question 1

“she was”

Answer 1

.Repetition
.This is effective as it makes clear that Aunt Julia has a strong relationship with the natural world as it emphasises MacCaigs use of imagery and indicates a variety of ways in which she is connected to nature. It also emphasises the all-consuming and overwhelming nature of Aunt Julia and the major impact she has on those around her, particularly the speaker.

Question 2

“buckets and water flouncing”

Answer 2

. Metaphor
. The dramatic movement within a bucket is being compared to the character of Aunt Julia
. Just as the movement of water within a bucket is volatile and powerful so too is the character of Aunt Julia dynamic, unpredictable and confident
. This is effective as it suggests that Aunt Julia has a dynamic and explosive attitude and emphasises her closeness to nature and how it is an important part of her character. This also highlights how the speaker has a positive and happy memory of his aunt Julia

Question 3

“winds pouring wetly”

Answer 3

.Metaphor
.The powerful forces of wind and rain are being compared to the character of Aunt Julia
.Just as wind and rain are powerful and unpredictable, so too is Aunt Julia unstoppable and volatile
.This is effective as it makes clear that Aunt Julia is a powerful and unrelenting force of nature. She is an overwhelming and unyielding presence with masses of dynamic energy. Ultimately, nature is a major important aspect of Aunt Julia’s character.

Question 4

“brown eggs, black skirts and a keeper”