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Look at lines 1–11 - Scottish Highers English - Question 41 - 2022
Question 41
Look at lines 1–11. By referring to at least two examples, analyse how the poet’s use of language conveys the mother’s attitude towards the speaker.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Look at lines 1–11 - Scottish Highers English - Question 41 - 2022
Step 1
By referring to at least two examples, analyse how the poet’s use of language conveys the mother’s attitude towards the speaker.
Answer
In the opening lines of 'Box Room,' the speaker introduces the warm atmosphere created by the mother with phrases like "welcoming" and "smiles all round." These suggest her desire to make the speaker feel at home, highlighting a nurturing side.
Moreover, the line "She puts me in my place" carries a dual connotation. While it indicates affectionate guidance, it also implies an underlying control, suggesting her expectations on how the speaker should behave. This juxtaposition reflects a complex relationship that combines warmth with a sense of obligation.
Additionally, the description of the room being filled with "concern for my comfort" illustrates her protective nature, emphasizing that her intentions are rooted in care. However, this also hints at a suffocating environment where the speaker may feel trapped between comfort and confinement, revealing a deeper layer of the mother’s attitude.