How, in your opinion, does the poet convey his attitude/feelings towards "the old black banger"? Explain your answer with reference to the first eight lines of the poem - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2007

In the first eight lines of the poem, the poet Pat Boran conveys a sense of nostalgia combined with a hint of melancholy towards "the old black banger." The imagery of morning sunshine filtering through the peeling paint and rust evokes a warm, yet bittersweet memory associated with the car. The use of the phrase "like a stile" suggests that the car is a relic that serves as a passage into the past, representing memories intertwined with innocence and childhood.

The description of the car being perched on concrete blocks brings forth a sense of abandonment and neglect, indicating how the once-proud vehicle has fallen into disrepair. This juxtaposition of memories and the car's current state reinforces the poet's feelings of loss. Moreover, the phrase "insect death" associated with the wooden dashboard suggests not only decay but also the inescapable passage of time. The poet’s reflective tone hints at a deeper emotional connection to this car, resembling a companion from his early years that now signifies the inevitability of change in both the vehicle's life and his own.