Disscussion of Change in Poetry Essay - 950 Words

Question: How do the poets explore the concept of change? To change is to transform, to undergo metamorphosis. It is essential and unavoidable in life. ‘In black and white by Eleni Fourtouni and ‘My brother by Bruce Dawe attempt to encapsulate the essence of change and demonstrate its complexity. The poets create this imagery and make their point through techniques and structure. Eleni Fourtouni explores the concept of change through eloquent phrasing and descriptive imagery. ‘In black and white describes the journey from girl to women and the relationships that generate life long memories. Eleni Fourtouni reflects upon her childhood whilst gazing at a photograph laced with forgotten memories of 10 years prior. Time has cascaded†¦show more content†¦This inclusion of seasons implies change, as seasons are a constant changing force, inevitable. Language techniques such as alliteration are used; this is evident through the lines: ‘Full Foliage and ‘Succulent and Sweet. ‘In black and white is written in first person; this greatly personifies the poem, making the reader feel empathetic towards the poet, and allows them to better understand the nature of the poem. Eleni crafts her mother so well, that the reader can get an accurate picture of her appearance. The structure of the poem is a gradual time line from the past towards the present . Bruce Dawes poem ‘My brother takes a satirical approach towards middle age and the drastic changes that occur with each generation. It is a relaxed poem which allows the reader to familiarise with the surroundings. The author uses ambiguity; the poem can be read on two levels as the real meaning can often remain allusive. It mimics an average car ride, but has much greater meaning, the language comments on how our society has taken the fast lane towards growing up. The youth of today are moulding our society to suit themselves whilst ostracizing the older generations. This is evident in the lines ‘the young kids in their big unpaid for cars, and the old men going flat out to keep ahead. This also suggests that perhaps maturity can slow you down, whilst young you are impulsive. As time drives forward the urge decreases and a mature attitude develops. The poet is