Prufrock’s Fears
What fear does Prufrock express when he asks, "Do I dare / Disturb the universe?"
Fear of self-expression and making an impact.
What does Prufrock mean by "Do I dare to eat a peach?"
He fears aging, change, and the potential consequences of simple actions.
What does the "yellow fog" in the poem symbolize?
The yellow fog symbolizes Prufrock’s indecision and the hazy, unclear nature of his thoughts.
Why does Prufrock worry about his appearance, such as "how his hair is growing thin"?
He fears judgment from others about his physical appearance.
Finish the quote: "In the room the women come and go, talking of _______."
"Michelangelo."
What does the "eternal Footman" represent?
The eternal Footman represents death.
What does Prufrock mean when he says, "I have seen the eternal Footman hold my coat, and snicker"?
He fears death (the "eternal Footman" symbolizes death) and the possibility that his life has no meaning.
What does the quote “I have measured out my life with coffee spoons” suggest about Prufrock’s life?
It suggests the monotony and triviality of his life, symbolizing how he lives in small, insignificant increments.
What is the significance of the mermaids in Prufrock’s fantasy?
The mermaids represent an idealized, unattainable world of beauty and mystery, highlighting Prufrock’s fear that he is not worthy of such a world.
What causes Prufrock to delay his confession of love to the person in the poem?
Fear of rejection and fear of expressing his true feelings.
What is the significance of the line “And when I am formulated, sprawling on a pin”?
It symbolizes Prufrock’s fear of being scrutinized and pinned down like an insect under observation.
What does Prufrock’s repeated reference to time (e.g., "there will be time") represent?
It represents his procrastination and fear of acting, as he constantly reassures himself that he has time to make decisions but never does.
What societal fear does Prufrock express through the line, “I am no prophet – and here’s no great matter”?
He fears he is insignificant and unworthy of making important statements or predictions.
What emotion is Prufrock expressing in the quote: “Till human voices wake us, and we drown”?
He expresses fear that reality will crush his fantasies, and he will be overwhelmed by the real world.
How does Eliot use urban imagery (streets, fog, buildings) to reflect Prufrock’s internal fears?
The urban imagery creates a sense of isolation and confusion, reflecting Prufrock’s alienation and his fear of engaging with the world around him.