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Do you find the poet’s reaction to the lamb in this poem surprising? Explain your answer with reference to the poem - Junior Cycle English - Question 1 - 2019
Question 1
Do you find the poet’s reaction to the lamb in this poem surprising? Explain your answer with reference to the poem. Caught Out Face to face with a lamb On a Sprin... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Do you find the poet’s reaction to the lamb in this poem surprising? Explain your answer with reference to the poem - Junior Cycle English - Question 1 - 2019
Step 1
Explain the Poet's Reaction
Answer
The poet's reaction to the lamb in the poem can indeed be seen as surprising for several reasons. At first glance, the encounter appears innocent; however, the poet's internal struggle reveals a deeper emotional conflict. The lamb represents innocence, which amplifies the poet's feelings of guilt and exposure. This juxtaposition creates an unexpected tension in the poem.
The poet describes the lamb with specific imagery, such as its black legs and ears, which suggests a vivid and almost personified encounter. The use of phrases like 'I have nowhere to hide' indicates the poet's feeling of vulnerability in this seemingly simple moment.
Furthermore, the comparison of the poet's guilt to being caught lying to his grand-daughter adds a compelling layer to the emotional response. It highlights the theme of trust and betrayal, suggesting that the poet may feel he is betraying the purity represented by the lamb.
Step 2
Discuss the Elements of Surprising Emotion
Answer
The poet's exaggerated emotional response transforms what should be a simple encounter into a complex situation. The guilt reflected in 'I feel as guilty / As if caught out by my grand-daughter' suggests that his reaction is far more profound than one would expect from such a mundane interaction with a lamb.
Moreover, the line 'Why has he nowhere to hide?' invites readers to ponder deeper themes of identity and morality, which further underscores the surprise in the poet's reaction. This level of introspection is not typically associated with an encounter in nature, enhancing the poem's impact.
Step 3
Conclude with Insights on Innocence
Answer
In conclusion, the poet's reaction to the lamb is surprising because it transcends mere observation and enters the realm of emotional and ethical contemplation. The lamb, a symbol of innocence, serves as a mirror, reflecting the poet's own feelings of guilt and his complex relationship with honesty and trust, making the reader reconsider their own perceptions of such seemingly simple interactions.