Storm On The Island Quote Analysis

Question 1

“ storm on the island”

Answer 1

• Stormont is the northern Ireland Republic government - the title is a homophone for Ireland
• Asking telling the readers it’s a huge storm, but it’s only on an island. The people think it’s something massive because it’s affecting them, but actually it’s a small problem that can be overcome. Solution needs to be political both sides need to come together in a political solution.

Question 2

“ sink walls in rock and roof them with good slate”

Answer 2

• sibilance gives the idea of a sinister mood conflict between Catholic and Protestant is also sinister
  -“ sink walls” - harsh sounds consonance - give us an idea about the harsh experiences the island is suffering
• when we decide our religion, we are sinking balls diminishing our experiences
• The building of the house imagery contrast with the idea that it’s actually sinking (juxtaposition) -he believes what’s going on in Northern Ireland is a huge mistake

Question 3

“ this wizened earth has never troubled us”

Answer 3

• “ negative imagery the Earth is old but society he’s describing is “wizened”