Example unseen poetry Q2
essay 1

In both ‘A Day in Autumn’ and ‘The washing never gets done’, the poets present ideas about daily life and connecting with the natural world. What are the similarities and/or differences between the methods the poets use to present these ideas?

Both ‘A Day in Autumn’ and ‘The Washing Never Gets Done’ convey the merit of connecting with the natural world in the midst of the busy nature of daily life by using the symbolism of “mind.” This allows the poets to illustrate the complex nature of the mind and how it can be either filled with the stress of daily life or used to remember the beauty of the natural world. Regardless, both poems display the mind as a useful tool that can be calmed down by connecting with nature. Whilst Kaplinski uses one stanza, Thomas uses two stanzas. The use of one stanza allows Kaplinski to convey the intensity and almost suffocating nature of daily life due to the endless, beat-like mirage of tasks it entails. Whereas, the use of two stanzas allows Thomas to portray the interdependency of man and its reader — in the same way that stanzas can not be apart or simply one, all aspects of nature depend on each other for survival which emphasises the wonder one can feel from connecting with the natural world. Whilst Kaplinski uses simple imagery, Thomas uses personification. The use of personification allows Thomas to convey the purpose and meaning behind all aspects of nature — everything has a purpose. This links to the idea about the divinity of nature as created by God. This suggests that for Thomas, nature has a deeper meaning and purpose than just pretty sights that bring you peace of mind. The use of imagery conveys the simplicity with which the speaker is speaking — enjoying nature and its peace.