Question 1: Identify a line in the passage that uses imagery to describe the relationship. What effect does this imagery have?

Answer: The imagery of the 'frozen river' suggests stagnation, reflecting emotional coldness or distance between the couple.

Question 2: What is the significance of the phrase 'gliding apart' in the context of the poem?

Answer: It highlights the tension or separation in their relationship, contrasting with moments of closeness.

Question 3: Identify the poetic device used in the phrase 'winter’s hush' and explain its effect.

Answer: The phrase uses alliteration, creating a soft, quiet mood that mirrors the stillness of winter and the emotional silence between the couple.

Question 4: Describe how the metaphor of the swans helps convey the theme of the poem.

Answer: The swans symbolize unity and fragile harmony in the relationship. Their connection reflects the possibility of reconciliation and mutual understanding despite challenges, emphasizing the poem's theme of enduring love.

Question 5: Identify a moment in the poem where caesura is used and discuss its impact on the reader.

Answer: The caesura creates a pause that emphasises emotional reflection, allowing the reader to consider the significance of the moment more deeply.

Question 6: Explain how the poet's choice of colour imagery (e.g., 'white', 'frost') contributes to the mood of the poem.

Answer: Colour imagery like 'white' and 'frost' evokes feelings of coldness or emotional distance, but also purity and clarity, creating a nuanced mood of tension and hope.

Question 7: Based on the extract, how does the poet use nature as a symbol for human relationships?

Answer: Nature, through images like winter and swans, symbolises both the fragility and beauty of relationships, suggesting they require care and understanding to survive.

Question 8: Choose one technique from the passage and explain how it enhances the emotional impact of the poem.

Answer: b) Imagery - It evokes vivid visual scenes that deepen emotional understanding.

Question 9: Write a brief paragraph analysing the use of symbolism in depicting the relationship in the poem.

Answer: Symbolism in the poem, through images like the swans and winter landscape, portrays the delicate balance of love and separation. The swans represent fidelity and unity, while winter signifies hardship and emotional coldness. Together, these symbols highlight the enduring nature of love despite challenges, underscoring the complex dynamics of human relationships.