Digging Analysis

Question 1

What does the S sound in “squelch and slap/ Of soggy peat “ create?

Answer 1

The soft S sound mimics the feeling and sound of the soft, soggy peat

Question 2

What does the alliteration in, “the spade sinks into gravelly ground” create?

Answer 2

The S sound suggests the slicing of the spade through the earth and the G sounds the gravelly resistance of the soil

Question 3

What are the themes in ‘Digging’

Answer 3

Family, identity, tradition and skill

Question 4

How do we know Heaney has pride in his father?

Answer 4

He says, “By God, the old man could handle a spade”

Question 5

Give an example of a simile in digging

Answer 5

“Snug as a gun”. This shows how perfectly the pen sits in Heaney’s hand

Question 6

How do we know Heaney’s father was skilled in his work?

Answer 6

“Stooping in rhythm through potato drills” and how his boot and his knee fit the spade perfectly