Valentine - Unseen Poetry

Here is an edgy ‘love’ poem by Carol Ann Duffy.

You hopefully know the routine by now folks - read the poem, spend 10 minutes taking some notes in response to the question, making sure you have used UNTWIST as a starting point (and ensuring you cover language and structure in equal measure). Then, when you have arrived at a plan which you could use to write your response in the 30 minutes remaining, listen to my audio notes and see how our readings compare.

‘Explore how Duffy presents romantic love in ‘Valentine’.

In your answer, consider the poet's:  

• Descriptive skills  

• Choice of language  

• Use of structure and form . 

Valentine

Not a red rose or a satin heart. 

I give you an onion. 

It is a moon wrapped in brown paper. 

It promises light 

like the careful undressing of love. 

Here. 

It will blind you with tears 

like a lover. 

It will make your reflection 

a wobbling photo of grief. 

I am trying to be truthful. 

Not a cute card or a kissogram. 

I give you an onion. 

Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips, 

possessive and faithful 

as we are, 

for as long as we are.

Take it.

Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding-ring,

If you like.

Lethal.

Its scent will cling to your fingers,

Cling to your knife.

Carol Ann Duffy