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Read the following poem by Maurice Riordan and answer either Question 1 or Question 2 which follow - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2020
Question 1
Read the following poem by Maurice Riordan and answer either Question 1 or Question 2 which follow. Badb* I was walking where the woods begin with an almost sheer ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the following poem by Maurice Riordan and answer either Question 1 or Question 2 which follow - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2020
Step 1
Based on your reading of the above poem, discuss the impact and suitability of its title. Develop your response with reference to the poem.
Answer
The title 'Badb' is significant as it sets the tone for the poem, evoking themes of mythology and nature. Badb, a Celtic war goddess, symbolizes transformation and the intersection of the natural and supernatural. This connection enriches the reader's understanding of the crow, suggesting it embodies qualities of wisdom and watchfulness.
Moreover, the title serves to intrigue the reader, prompting an exploration of the crow's role in the poem. By presenting the crow through the lens of myth, Maurice Riordan invites an interpretation that extends beyond mere observation to a deeper, almost spiritual engagement with the natural world. This aligns well with the poem's themes of interconnectedness and awareness, reinforcing the suitability of the title.
Step 2
Discuss how the poet brings the above poem to life by appealing to the senses. Develop your response with reference to the poem.
Answer
Maurice Riordan skillfully employs sensory imagery to immerse the reader in the poem's vivid landscape and emotional depth. The initial lines create a striking visual of the woods and river, immediately drawing the reader into the scene with the descriptor 'almost sheer drop.' This vivid imagery not only paints a picture but also evokes feelings of vertigo and proximity.
Furthermore, Riordan engages other senses through his descriptions of smells and sunlight, such as 'the same tangy woodland smells' and 'malt-pale October sunlight.' These sensory details contribute to an overall atmosphere that feels alive and dynamic. The reference to the crow's reaction adds an auditory element, with the 'single rough caw' acting as a punctuating sound that emphasizes the moment of connection between the speaker and the crow.
Through this multi-sensory approach, the poet effectively brings the scene to life, allowing the audience to experience the profound relationship between the natural and the mythical.