To The Public Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the main theme of Louis MacNiece’s poem ‘To the Public’?
The poem critiques public perceptions of poets, emphasizing their sensitivity and freedom despite being viewed as lawless and crude.
The poem suggests that poets are more in touch with reality than the ‘Common Man’.
What literary device is prominently used in Shakespeare’s Sonnet 104?
Imagery and metaphor are used to convey the theme of timeless beauty.
The poem compares the transient seasons to the enduring beauty of the fair friend.
Fill in the blank: In ‘To the Public’, MacNiece describes poets as having ‘_______’ fingers.
burglars’ and gunman’s
What does MacNiece imply about poets’ relationship with society?
Poets are portrayed as outsiders who challenge societal norms while expressing their truths.
They ‘throw their dreams and guts in people’s faces’, indicating a raw honesty.
True or False: In Sonnet 104, Shakespeare suggests that beauty fades with age.
False
What does the phrase ‘three winters cold’ symbolize in Shakespeare’s Sonnet 104?
The passage of time and the enduring nature of beauty.
It indicates that despite the changes brought by time, the friend’s beauty remains unchanged.
What attitude does MacNiece take towards public indulgence of poets?
He rejects the notion that poets need public indulgence or pity.
He asserts that poets possess more common sense and freedom than the average person.
Fill in the blank: The phrase ‘shook three summers’ pride’ in Sonnet 104 refers to _______.
the effects of winter on summer’s beauty
What does MacNiece mean by stating poets have ‘more common sense’ than the ‘Common Man’?
He suggests that poets possess a deeper understanding of life and society.
This challenges the stereotype of poets as overly sensitive or disconnected.
What is the significance of the phrase ‘throwing our dreams and guts in people’s faces’ in MacNiece’s poem?
It emphasizes the boldness and raw honesty of poets in expressing their innermost thoughts.
This act is portrayed as confrontational yet necessary.
In what year did Louis MacNiece live?
1907-1963
What is the implication of poets being described as ‘lawless’ in MacNiece’s poem?
It suggests that poets operate outside societal rules and norms.
This reflects their role as challengers of conventions.
