In the first stanza of this poem why does Acorn refer to a “gillettes width” rather than a razor’s width? How do the connotations differ? Which suggests the more personal image? Explain the phrase “a rude brush-cut to the chin/tucks on brain safe under another.” (Note that the word “rude” here means rough or simple, … Continue reading Milton Acorn, “The Fights”
What does the simile in the first stanza suggest about the social atmosphere of Prince Edward Island? Acorn says that “nowhere is there a spot not measured by hands.” How does this suggest the size of the island? What contrast is implied by the “beaches that roar”? Explain the phrase “any wonder your eyelashes are … Continue reading Milton Acorn, “The Island”
First, read the essay “Preface to ‘The Bush Garden’” by Northrop Frye on page 107 of The Oxford Anthology of Canadian Literature. What, according to Frye, are the essential characteristics of Canadian Literature? Now, which one of the following poems exemplifies best these essential characteristics? Milton Acorn: “The Island,” “The Fights”Margaret Atwood: “Death of a … Continue reading The Essential Canadian Poem