Question 1: What is the main theme conveyed in this extract of the poem related to the historical setting?

Answer: The conflict between duty and personal survival during wartime.

Question 2: Identify one literary device used in the extract and explain its effect.

Answer: Imagery; it helps create vivid pictures of the sea and sky, emphasizing the emotional turbulence.

Question 3: What does the pilot’s hesitation symbolize in the context of the poem?

Answer: The inner conflict between loyalty to country and personal morals.

Question 4: How does the historical setting influence the tone of the poem?

Answer: It creates a tone of tension and emotional struggle, reflecting the war’s moral dilemmas.

Question 5: Describe the significance of the storm in the pilot’s mind as depicted in the extract.

Answer: It symbolizes internal conflict and emotional turmoil about his decision.

Question 6: What does the line 'a packet of pearl and a wish to survive' suggest about the pilot’s priorities?

Answer: It suggests he values personal safety and family over duty or honor.

Question 7: Explain how the poem reflects the cultural values of the time period it describes.

Answer: Students should discuss themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and personal conflict prevalent during wartime Japan, and how these values influenced individuals' decisions.

Question 8: Based on the extract, how does the poet portray the emotional state of the pilot?

Answer: The poet depicts the pilot as conflicted and emotional, struggling between duty and personal desire.

Question 9: How might this poem help us understand the experiences of soldiers in wartime?

Answer: It shows the emotional struggles and moral dilemmas faced, emphasizing the human side of war.