Violence

Question 1

“Thin tissue over violence”

Answer 1

Just as a tissue is thin and breakable so to is the line between peace and violence, it is very thin and vulnerable.
Creates contrast between the tough cop and the violence he is forced to take part in and the delicacy of tissue and the calm and gentleness involved with peace

Question 2

Between Phoebes Whamburgers and Louis
Place

Answer 2

The word choice of using places that are real alongside words of violence and gunshots helps us appreciate the dangers of the city life and the harsh reality of it. Onomatopoeia of
‘wham’ makes the place sound dangerous which links back to the theme and poems tone

Question 3

Who would be who have to be his victim

Answer 3

There is a contrast between the cop being a victim of violence from the public and other aspects of his life. To the contrast of him actually being the one performing violence on others.

Question 4

‘police cars and ambulances racing’

Answer 4

WC: ‘racing’ suggests panic and distress and makes clear the danger and threat present.

Question 5

‘the harsh screaming /from coldwater flats, the blood/ glazed on sidewalks

Answer 5

WC: ‘screaming and ‘blood’ both have connotations of extreme violence and suggests the consequences of the uncivilized and brutal behavior present in NYC at night.

Question 6

It’s uncivilised darkness

Answer 6

WC: ‘uncivilised’ suggests unacceptable, primitive behaviour and ‘darkness’ connotes something evil, dangerous and threatening. Both highlight the threat of violence which comes with the night in NYC.