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Love and Relationships Read the two poems below and then answer both part a) and part b) - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 1
Love and Relationships Read the two poems below and then answer both part a) and part b). You are advised to spend about 45 minutes on part a) and 30 minutes on par... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Love and Relationships Read the two poems below and then answer both part a) and part b) - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Compare how these poems present happy relationships.
Answer
To compare how the poems 'Bright Star' by John Keats and 'The Orange' by Wendy Cope present happy relationships, we examine the themes, tone, and language used in each poem.
Ideas and Attitudes
In 'Bright Star,' Keats expresses a profound love and longing, presenting an idealistic view of a relationship that yearns for eternal connection. The poem portrays love as transcendent and pure, suggesting that it elevates the human experience.
Conversely, in 'The Orange,' Cope adopts a more playful and grounded approach, celebrating the simple joy of love through sensory experiences. The ideas reflected here emphasize the tangible happiness found in everyday moments shared with a loved one.
Tone and Atmosphere
Keats’ tone is romantic and contemplative, creating an atmosphere filled with longing and reverence. The imagery he uses evokes a sense of awe, as his love is both elevated and desperate, yearning for permanence.
In contrast, Cope’s tone is light-hearted and cheerful. The atmosphere in 'The Orange' is celebratory, highlighting the sweetness of love and the delight found in small, shared experiences, such as enjoying an orange together.
Effects of Language and Structure
Keats employs rich imagery and a sonnet form that enhances the depth of emotion and the sense of eternity he wishes to convey. The structure adds to the poem's musicality, reflecting the harmony between the two lovers.
On the other hand, Cope uses simple, accessible language that mirrors the uncomplicated joy of the moments described. Her use of enjambment creates a playful flow, enhancing the overall cheeriness of the poem while conveying the sense of spontaneity in love.
In summary, while both poems celebrate happy relationships, Keats presents a more serious and idealized depiction of love, whereas Cope focuses on the joy found in the simplicity of shared experiences.
Step 2
Explore in detail how one other poem from your anthology presents feelings of joy in love.
Answer
To explore how the poem 'The Sun Rising' by John Donne presents feelings of joy in love, we can analyze its themes, tone, and the use of language.
Themes
In 'The Sun Rising,' Donne conveys the theme of love as a powerful force that transcends time and space. The joy in love is portrayed through the intimate connection between the speaker and his beloved, elevating their relationship above all worldly concerns.
Tone and Atmosphere
The tone of the poem is confident and assertive, reflecting the speaker's delight in love. The atmosphere is intimate, as the speaker addresses the sun, challenging its authority and suggesting that their love is more significant than any external force.
Language and Structure
Donne uses vivid imagery and metaphors, comparing the sun’s intrusion to an unwelcome guest, which underscores the joy he derives from being with his lover. The poem's structure, with its rhythmic lines and couplets, reinforces the harmonious nature of their love, making it feel alive and dynamic.
In summary, 'The Sun Rising' encapsulates the feelings of joy in love through its themes of transcendence, confident tone, and innovative language, celebrating the personal connection that defies the mundane.