Basking Shark- Stanza 1 Flashcards
“stub”
“a rock”
. Metaphor
. The presence of the basking shark is being compared to a rock
. Just as a rock is solid and unmovable so too is the basking shark large and unstoppable
. This is effective as it makes clear that the basking shark has a strong and intimidating presence as it appears to be unmovable and unyielding, which represents how it will have a permanent effect on the speaker. It also suggests the basking shark lacks intelligence and an awareness of the speakers presence
“To have”
“rise”
.Word choice
.Connotations of sudden, impressive and intimidating
.This suggests the sudden arrival of the shark emerging from the water as the speaker is impressed by its enormous and intimidating size and power
“slounge”
.Onomatopoeic word choice
.Connotations of slow, relaxed, and lack of awareness
.This suggests the slow and relaxed way the shark emerges from the water with a lack of awareness towards the speaker. This highlights the hefty size of the shark and the sound of the waves, which emphasises the dramatic impact it has on the water, and therefore the speaker
“(too often)”
. Parenthesis
. This is effective as it emphasises the impact which the disturbing and confusing experience had on the speaker and how he does not want to repeat it. It also highlights how the speaker uses humor to attempt to play down the scary encounter.
