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In this poem, the writer Robert Hershon tells of a moment in a restaurant with his adult son - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2009
Question 1
In this poem, the writer Robert Hershon tells of a moment in a restaurant with his adult son. **SENTIMENTAL MOMENT** Don’t fill up on bread I say absent-mindedly T... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In this poem, the writer Robert Hershon tells of a moment in a restaurant with his adult son - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2009
Step 1
What impression does this poem give you of the way the father feels towards his son?
Answer
The poem conveys a complex emotional landscape of the father's feelings towards his son. The father's absent-mindedness at the start, as he casually advises his son not to fill up on bread, suggests a sense of detachment or preoccupation. However, this detachment contrasts sharply with the father’s deeper emotional connection, which emerges in the latter part of the poem. The father’s longing to reach for his son’s hand while walking together signifies his protective nature and desire for closeness, highlighting an affectionate bond despite the initial aloofness.
Step 2
What words or phrases from the poem give you this impression?
Answer
Several phrases within the poem reinforce this impression of a dynamic father-son relationship. The phrase 'I say absent-mindedly' showcases the father's distraction, while 'My son, whose hair may be receding a bit' hints at the son's maturity and the father's recognition of time passing. The line 'I sometimes start to reach for his hand' encapsulates the emotional warmth, suggesting that despite the father's distracted demeanor, there is a deep-rooted love and a wish for connection.
Step 3
The writer chose the title Sentimental Moment for this poem. In your view, what other title might he have chosen? Explain your choice by referring to the text of the poem.
Answer
An alternative title the writer might have considered is 'Moments of Connection'. This title reflects the central theme of the poem, emphasizing the significance of fleeting yet poignant interactions between a father and son. Supporting this choice, the moment where the father hesitates to reach for his son's hand showcases not only sentimentality but also the depth of their relationship. It highlights how simple gestures can hold profound emotional weight, aligning well with the interactions depicted in the poem.