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Write a personal response to the poem ‘Back Yard’. - Leaving Cert English - Question 2 - 2005
Question 2
Write a personal response to the poem ‘Back Yard’.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write a personal response to the poem ‘Back Yard’. - Leaving Cert English - Question 2 - 2005
Step 1
Do you like the world that the poet describes in this poem? Give reasons for your answer supporting them by reference to the text.
Answer
In the poem 'Back Yard', the world described is one filled with warmth and nostalgia, evoking a sense of community and connection to nature. The imagery of the moon shining on various elements like 'the leaves of grass, catalpa and oak' creates a serene and almost magical atmosphere. I find this world appealing as it invites us to reflect on simple moments in life, such as the Italian boy serenading someone, highlighting the beauty of youth and love. The line, 'drinking white thoughts you rain down' suggests a contemplative, peaceful state where the speaker connects deeply with their surroundings.
Furthermore, the contrast between the old man dreaming of the cherry tree, and the speaker’s desire to linger on the porch, encapsulates a sense of community in struggle and joy. Overall, the poem reveals a world rich in sensory details that resonate with the reader, engaging them to appreciate the little things that often go unnoticed.
Step 2
Choose a line or two that you find particularly appealing and explain why.
Answer
One line that stands out to me is, 'Shine on, O moon, / Shake out more and more silver changes.' This line is particularly evocative as it personifies the moon, suggesting an intimate relationship with nature. The phrase 'shake out more and more silver changes' conveys a sense of longing and a desire for transformation, inviting readers to reflect on the changes in their own lives.
The imagery of 'silver changes' enhances the beauty of nocturnal moments and suggests the duality of light and darkness in our lives. It resonates with the idea of time passing and the continuous cycle of changes, making it a powerful reflection on existence. This line captures the essence of what makes poetry enjoyable—the ability to provoke thought and emotion through simple yet profound language.