Letters From Yorkshire - Quotes

Question 1

“he saw the lapwings return, and came to write to me”

Answer 1

1 - distance of personal pronouns represents the physical seperation they behold - suggests how letters are able to bridge this physical distance bestowed onto them

2 - “lapwings” are seen as a migratory bird, emphasising nature’s cyclical rythem - suggesting their emotional connection is tied to the natural world - their bond is as organic as the changing seasons - idea of spring - idolises rural life

3 - birds can fly, perhaps the “lapwings” are a reminder of the world the speaker has left behind - emotional separation of where he grew up from

Question 2

“our souls tap out messages across the icy miles”

Answer 2

1 - Dooley feels a strong connection to the person - “icy miles” evokes ideas of literal distance and physical coldness - communication remains so intimate its deeply felt - inextricable connection

2 - “tap out messages” alike to morse code - methods of communication that are long and tiresome, requre effort - showcasing that their relationship isnt easy but sustained through meaningful careful exchanges between eachother

Question 3

“planting potatoes” and “heartful of headlines”

Answer 3

1 - distinctive juxtaposition between their lives - separation between rural and urban lives - yet they are still able to coincide and speak with eachother - she is idiolising his life “is your life more real because you dig and sow?”

2 - “planting” potatoes suggests care and nurture - implies that through his lifestyle, the man is able to nurture their bond over time despite their separation.

3 - potatoes also grow underground - symbolize hidden growth? the most important parts of their relationships are not visible, but alive beneath the surface of their letters