Question 1: Briefly summarize the main themes of 'Remains'. How does the poem explore the effects of war on soldiers?

Answer: The poem explores themes of trauma, guilt, and the lingering psychological scars of war, highlighting how violent acts haunt soldiers even after combat.

Question 1: Examine the line "Probably armed, possibly not". What does this suggest about the soldier's perception of the event, and how does it affect the reader?

Answer: It suggests uncertainty and moral ambiguity, making the reader question the soldier's memory and the chaos of war, which heightens the sense of confusion and guilt.

Question 2: Identify and explain the effect of the metaphor in the line "his blood-shadow stays on the street".

Answer: The metaphor emphasizes the lasting psychological impact of violence, suggesting the soldier's guilt is as permanent and haunting as bloodstains on the street, evoking discomfort and remorse.

Question 1: Describe the imagery associated with the 'limb' and 'blood' in the poem. How do these images contribute to the overall tone?

Answer: The visceral imagery of limbs and blood creates a graphic, disturbing tone that emphasizes the brutality of war and the physical and emotional scars it leaves.

Question 2: Quote explosion: Analyze the imagery in the phrase "his blood-shadow stays on the street". What is the significance of the word "shadow" here?

Answer: The word "shadow" suggests something persistent and haunting, emphasizing how the memory of violence lingers and affects both the soldier and the environment, reinforcing themes of guilt and trauma.

Question 1: How does Armitage use language to convey the idea that war leaves psychological scars? Provide specific examples.

Answer: Armitage uses phrases like "blood-shadow" and "probably armed, possibly not" to suggest uncertainty and lasting trauma, highlighting the enduring psychological scars of war.

Question 2: Long Answer: Write a brief essay plan discussing how Armitage uses imagery and language devices to portray the soldier's mental state in 'Remains'.

Answer: Introduction: Context of war and trauma. Paragraph 1: Use of visceral imagery (blood, limbs) to show physical and emotional scars. Paragraph 2: Use of metaphors (blood-shadow) to depict ongoing guilt. Paragraph 3: Language of uncertainty ('possibly not') to reflect confusion and denial. Conclusion: Effect on the reader—evoking empathy and awareness of war's lasting impact.

Question 1: Compare the portrayal of power in 'Remains' and 'Ozymandias'. How do the poets use language and imagery to present their themes?

Answer: In 'Remains', Armitage uses visceral imagery and uncertain language to depict the lasting scars of conflict, emphasizing psychological trauma. In 'Ozymandias', Shelley employs grand, decaying imagery and irony to show the inevitable decline of power and hubris. Both use vivid descriptions to comment on the impermanence of human achievements and the lasting effects of power.