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ON THE MOVE – Thom Gunn ‘Man, you gotta Go.’ The blue jay scuffling in the bushes follows Some hidden purpose, and the gust of birds That spurts across the field, the wheeling swallows, Have nested in the trees and undergrowth - NSC English HL - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 2
Question 4
ON THE MOVE – Thom Gunn ‘Man, you gotta Go.’ The blue jay scuffling in the bushes follows Some hidden purpose, and the gust of birds That spurts across the field, ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:ON THE MOVE – Thom Gunn ‘Man, you gotta Go.’ The blue jay scuffling in the bushes follows Some hidden purpose, and the gust of birds That spurts across the field, the wheeling swallows, Have nested in the trees and undergrowth - NSC English HL - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 2
Step 1
4.1 How does the inclusion of the word, 'nested' (line 4) convey the difference between man and birds?
Answer
The term 'nested' implies a sense of stability and security among the birds, suggesting that they have found their home and purpose. In contrast, man is portrayed as being in constant motion, indicative of restlessness and a lack of rootedness. This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between the settled life of the birds and the unsettled, searching nature of man.
Step 2
4.2 Comment on the effect of the repetition of 'toward' (line 32) in the poem.
Answer
The repetition of 'toward' emphasizes the notion of striving and pursuit in man's life. It reflects an intrinsic need to move forward, suggesting that while the direction may be unclear, there is an ongoing effort to seek fulfillment and purpose. The absence of a definitive destination indicates the continuous journey and the shifting objectives that characterize human existence.
Step 3
4.3 Refer to line 8: 'Or the dull thunder of approximate words.' Discuss the appropriateness of this image in the context of the poem as a whole.
Answer
The phrase 'dull thunder of approximate words' symbolizes the ambiguity and inefficacy of communication. It suggests that human attempts to convey meaning can often be indistinct and unclear, echoing the poem's theme of uncertainty regarding purpose and identity. The image reinforces the idea that while individuals may struggle to articulate their existence, the true essence of experience often eludes precise expression.
Step 4
4.4 Refer to lines 38–40: 'At worst, one is in motion; and at best, reaching no absolute, in which to rest.' Critically discuss whether these lines suggest a contradiction in the way in which people respond to life.
Answer
These lines seem to present a paradox in the human condition. They imply that mere movement, devoid of direction or achievement, is the baseline of existence, while at best, individuals may still not find a sense of completeness or rest. This contradiction underscores the struggle for meaning in life: while being in motion suggests progress, it can also indicate a perpetual state of searching, leading to an existential tension that defines the human experience.