Level 4, full-mark answer:
Both Macrae and Laskey use several methods to encourage the reader to consider how they live their life. Both poems present their perspectives through different narrative voices. While Macrae employs the use of the third person through the character ‘Harry’, Laskey chooses to use the second person. Macrae’s use of the third person could be used to emphasise the detachment of Harry from his materialistic world, instead finding solace in being isolated from it and therefore seemingly “on the outside”. Whereas Laskey’s second person enables the poet to directly address the reader through his repeated use of “you” and “yourself”, hence making his message appear to be universal and thus one that should be heeded by everyone.
Further, this is highlighted by the comparison between the direct, instructional tone of Nobody with that of the more descriptive, reflective tone of The Richest Poor Man in the Valley. Laskey’s use of language is much more commanding and this is evident through his use of imperatives: “Don’t let yourself in for this moment again”. This makes Laskey’s message appear to have a greater sense of authority and also helps to create a sense of urgency for the reader to change the way they live their life. In contrast, Macrae’s tone appears more reflective and thoughtful and she gently encourages the reader to compare their life to Harry’s in order to reflect on the dominance of materialism on people’s lives and to underscore the importance of being content within your own self.
Commentary:
- Exploratory comparison of the similarities and differences between both poems
- The response demonstrates an integrated engagement with the poem, reflecting on the ideas in a reflective and insightful way
- Thoughtful and developed ideas demonstrate a clear exploration of the poets’ methods to create meanings
- Methods are clearly stated throughout
- These methods include:
- Appropriate references used to support ideas