Innocence VS cruelty
What juxtaposition do we see here (in the poem)?
Cruelty and Innocence
What is the image created?
Harmony, Beauty, and Innocence.
Who is this "lesson" for?
This poem is directing the lesson to both the children in the poem and also the readers who can learn from this.
Should humans take responsibility to protect what is pure?
Yes humans should be responsible to protect what is pure because it helps as grow as individuals without feeling guilty and carrying a traumatic burden.
How does the speaker reference the Sabbath influencing the tone and meaning towards the poem?
The Sabbath is a time free of sin and a time of contemplation ,but the children do the opposite. It creates a sense of guilt which disrupts the speakers moment of peace.
How might the poem's themes relate to contemporary issues of violence, morality, and the loss of innocence in modern society? ( How does this poem relate to today's world?)
Just like kids in the poem, people today are constantly exposed to the world's problems, like violence and injustice, and must learn to deal with them.
What are some examples of how harmony, beauty and innocence is seen in the poem?
The summer grass represents harmony, it provokes a sense of calm and unspoiled beauty. It creates an innocent and pure scenario that will be corrupted.
what 'lesson' is Walcott trying to teach?
The lesson that he tries to teach is that the world may not always be kind, and everyone will eventually have to learn this.
How does Walcott use nature as a metaphor for a human experience?
The butterflies represent both beauty and danger just like life. At first nature seems perfect and peaceful but it also has violence. Showing us how life has good and bad sides.
What influence does religion play in the poem?
'Sunday' could symbolize divine lessons where children and adults learn the difficult truths about existence and of life
How does Walcott contrast innocence and experience in the poem?
What are the themes in the poem? Give an example of a specific line that demonstrates the theme
Religion
Death
Loss of innocence
Heredity of cruelty
In what ways does the poem suggest that suffering is an inevitable part of life?
The children start out enjoying nature ,but as they keep watching and see suffering. This shows that no matter what ,people will eventually see pain or experience it.
What are the consequences of the 'innocent' children's actions.
The butterflies are harmed and destroyed. This represents a loss of innocence
Does 'Sunday' have a symbolic connection to morality or spirituality?
The poem can suggest that understanding suffering and the hardships of life is both part of moral and spiritual growth
What commentary does the poem offer on the loss of childhood innocence?
It shows that kids will eventually see the world differently. At some point, they realize that life isn't just fun and beauty-- it also has pain and loss.
What is the tone and mood of the poem?
Tone: Fearful, Innocent, Curious
Mood: Painful, Impactful, Confused
How can this poem teach you to value life?
This poem teaches you to value life by living in the moment and realizing that life is unexpected. Life has its ups and downs and its our choice how we choose to overcome it.
How does the poem's depiction of nature challenge the idea of nature as something peaceful/beautiful?
The poem initially paints a picture of light and joy, children watching nature with fascination. Sadly ,this light is overshadowed by violence and the realization that suffering is an inherent part of life.
What does the line ' The plain notes of some Protestant Hosanna' mean?
Protestant Hosanna may refer to a song in praise to God as a sign of gratitude. We must remember this poem took place on a Sunday which would mean why the maid would want to sing a song of worship.
Can innocence coexist with cruelty?
The children's action are full of harm and cruelty without them even knowing. The moment may seem innocent to them but its not. There is cruelty in moments of innocence so cruelty and innocence can coexist.
How does the tone of the poem shift from beginning to end?
The poem starts with a tone of curiosity and wonder as the children observe nature. However, as they witness suffering, the tone shifts to one of realization and sadness
(Stanza 2 Line 9 and 10) What does the maid represent and suggest about her?
She represents someone trying to protect innocence and stop violence. She represents the struggle in society where certain people try to preserve the goodness of our world.
what does the 'scythe's design' symbolize in the final stanza?
The final image of a scythe's design suggest death, highlighting how cruelty and loss are inevitable parts of life.
In what way does the poem show the ability of religion protecting innocence or beauty?
Despite religious acts and symbols being portrayed, cruelty still occurs. This shows that religion and our faith can't shield the world from harm and preserve innocence forever.