Growing Old Flashcards
(14 cards)
What is one aspect of growing old according to Matthew Arnold?
To lose the glory of the form
Arnold reflects on the physical changes that accompany aging.
What does Arnold suggest about beauty and aging?
Beauty foregoes her wreath
This indicates a loss of beauty as one grows older.
What does the poem imply about strength in aging?
Strength decays
Arnold discusses the decline of both physical strength and youthful vigor.
How does Arnold describe the perception of aging compared to youth?
Not what in youth we dreamed ‘twould be
This highlights the disillusionment with the realities of aging.
What imagery does Arnold use to describe the aging process?
Mellowed and softened as with sunset glow
The sunset metaphor suggests a gradual decline rather than a sudden fall.
What does Arnold mean by ‘the hot prison of the present’?
Being trapped in the current moment without feeling youthful
This emphasizes the monotonous and painful experience of aging.
What emotional state does Arnold describe in relation to aging?
To suffer this, and feel but half, and feebly, what we feel
This indicates a dulling of emotions and experiences as one ages.
What does Arnold suggest festers deep in the heart as we age?
Dull remembrance of a change
This suggests a lingering awareness of lost youth and vitality.
What is described as the ‘last stage of all’ in aging?
When we are frozen up within, and quite the phantom of ourselves
This portrays a sense of inner emptiness and disconnection from one’s true self.
What does Arnold mean by ‘the hollow ghost which blamed the living man’?
A reflection of how society perceives an aging person
This indicates that the individual’s essence is overshadowed by superficial judgments.
What is the title of the poem by e.e. cummings?
nobody loses all the time
This title suggests a theme of resilience despite failures.
Who is the central character mentioned in cummings’ poem?
Uncle Sol
Uncle Sol represents a figure of perceived failure.
What talent did Uncle Sol possess?
He could sing ‘McCann He Was A Diver’
This highlights a unique skill that contrasts with his perceived failures.
What is implied about Uncle Sol’s suitability for vaudeville?
He was a born failure
This suggests that despite his talent, he was not seen as successful.
