Poetry

The Way my Mother Speak

Summary of the poem:

• The poem is about a train journey that symbolises the transition from childhood to adulthood, with the speaker reflecting on her mother's influence on her life.
• It explores the theme of change and growing up, as well as the enduring impact of the mother-daughter relationship.

The inspiration for the poem:

• The poem is inspired by the speaker's memories of her mother's phrases and expressions, which have become an integral part of her thinking and identity.
• It reflects the idea that one's upbringing and the words of their parents continue to shape their thoughts and actions.

Form of the poem:

• The poem consists of three stanzas, with the first stanza containing five lines and the second and third stanzas having nine lines each.
• There is no structured rhyme scheme, but the poem uses moments of full and half rhyme, as well as repetition and enjambment to create rhythm and depth.

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Poetry

Analysis

Stanza 1: In the first stanza of "The Way my Mother Speaks," the speaker begins by recalling how she silently repeats her mother's phrases within her own thoughts. The possessive use of "her" indicates that these phrases belong to her mother, but they have become deeply integrated into the speaker's inner world. The act of saying these phrases "under the shallows of my breath" suggests that the speaker recites them quietly, almost like a form of self-comfort. The word "shallows" carries connotations of calmness, implying that these phrases provide solace and familiarity during a journey. They are described as "restful shapes moving," suggesting that they bring a sense of peace and continuity even as the outside world changes. This stanza exemplifies the enduring connection between the speaker and her mother's words.

Stanza 2: In the second stanza, the speaker delves further into the train journey she is on. She mentions that the journey is taking place during a "slow evening" as the train traverses England. The transformation of the sky from "blue" to "cool grey" reflects both the passage of time and the shift from a brighter, more youthful perspective to a more somber and uncertain one. The word "browsing" implies that the train's course is not predetermined but meandering, akin to the speaker's quest to find the "right sky." This metaphorical search represents the speaker's journey into adulthood and the search for her own identity. The stanza introduces her mother's voice once again, emphasising that these phrases come to her when she thinks, demonstrating the deep-seated influence her mother has had on her.

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Poetry

Stanza 3: The final stanza encapsulates the speaker's complex emotions. She expresses a mix of happiness and sadness, suggesting that she is at a crossroads in her life. She likens her emotional state to the transition from summer to another season, symbolising the shift from childhood innocence and delight to the unknown challenges of adulthood. The reference to a 'green, erotic pond' reflects the juxtaposition of childhood's innocence and adult sensibilities, as the word 'erotic' hints at a more mature, complex world. The repetition of her mother's phrases in this stanza serves as a comforting mantra, assuring the speaker that, despite the changes and uncertainties, she carries her mother's influence with her. The final line, "I am homesick, free, in love with the way my mother speaks," reconciles these contradictory emotions, highlighting the enduring bond between mother and daughter, even in the face of life's transitions.

Themes

Change/growing up:

• The poem explores the transition from childhood to adulthood, symbolised by the train journey.
• The speaker's repetition of her mother's phrases represents the enduring connection to her childhood and past.

Relationships:

• The poem portrays the deep and positive relationship between the speaker and her mother.
• The mother's phrases and words continue to influence the speaker, providing comfort and connection.

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Poetry

Images

Transition from blue to grey:

• The changing sky colours from "blue" to "cool grey" represent the shift from childhood (brightness and innocence) to adulthood (uncertainty and complexity).
• This transition reflects the speaker's emotional journey on the train.

The green, erotic pond:

• The image of a "green, erotic pond" symbolises the end of childhood innocence and the encounter with adult themes and experiences.
• It suggests a juxtaposition of naivety and awareness, reflecting the speaker's own transition.

Style techniques

Repetition:

• The poem uses repetition to emphasise the phrases and words the speaker inherited from her mother, highlighting their significance.
• Phrases like "The day and ever" and "Nothing is not silent" are repeated for emphasis.

Enjambment:

• Enjambment is used to create a sense of flow and continuity in the poem, connecting lines and ideas.
• It reflects the ongoing influence of the mother's words on the speaker's thoughts.

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Poetry

Style techniques

Assonance:

• Assonance, such as the long "a" sound in "say" and "phrases," creates sonic connections and a sense of unity between the speaker and her mother's words.
• It reinforces the idea that these phrases are deeply ingrained in the speaker's mind.

Italics for emphasis:

• The use of italics for phrases like "The day and ever" and "What like is it" underscores their importance and significance in the speaker's life.
• It visually distinguishes these phrases as integral to the poem's themes.

Personal reflection

1. How does the poem relate to your own experiences of growing up and family influence?
2. What emotions does the poem stir in you regarding life's transitions and change?
3. How does the poem affect your perspective on the lasting impact of family relationships and memories on one's identity and worldview?