Valentine - About Flashcards
what is the poem about
speaker is giving a gift to their partner, it’s an onion instead of a traditional gift.
what is the form of the poem
stanzas of irregular lengths, makes poem disjointed
what is the structure of the poem
list of the way an onion symbolises love - mirrors different layers of an onion
how is an extended metaphor used
speaker sees the onion as an honest symbol - joy and intimacy of love but also pain
why is direct address used
directly addresses unknown partner “take it” could be forceful
how is dangerous language used
unusual amount of negative language for a love poem, could be a possessive relationship, word “knife” could emphasise danger
what are the feelings and attitudes in the poem
love, honesty and danger
how is love used
explores different forms of love - physical or emotional, can be possessive and cause pain, references to marriage being painful
how is honesty used
speaker takes pride in being honest about love, suggests traditional images of love don’t say anything about real love
how is danger used
at the end of the poem, a growing sense of danger is implied
