The prelude and afternoons

• What is the primary theme of Wordsworth's "Prelude"?

  The growth and evolution of the self in relation to nature and experience
• How does Larkin's "Afternoons" differ in its thematic focus compared to Wordsworth's "Prelude"?

  Larkin's "Afternoons" reflects on domestic life and the passage of time
• What are the main thematic elements explored in both "Prelude" and "Afternoons"?

  • Growth and personal development (Wordsworth)
  • Nature's influence on identity (Wordsworth)
  • Domestic life and existential ennui (Larkin)
  • The passage of time (Larkin)
• What does Wordsworth describe as a source of inspiration in "Prelude"?

  The natural world
• In which book of the "Prelude" does Wordsworth write about the ‘heavenly’ lake?

  Book I
• How does Wordsworth view nature in relation to self-discovery?

  As a path to self-discovery and personal enlightenment
• What is the mood of Larkin's "Afternoons" regarding domestic life?

  A nostalgic and somber perspective
• What do the mothers in Larkin's "Afternoons" symbolize?

  Unfulfilled desires and confinement within societal expectations
• How does Larkin's style in "Afternoons" differ from Wordsworth's in "Prelude"?

  Larkin uses stark and unembellished diction, while Wordsworth employs lyrical and expansive verse
• What literary technique does Larkin use to create a conversational tone in "Afternoons"?

  Enjambment
• What does the cyclical nature of domesticity in Larkin's "Afternoons" suggest about life?

  It suggests a sense of stagnation and unfulfilled aspirations
• How does Wordsworth's "Prelude" conclude regarding personal evolution?

  It suggests a hopeful outlook on introspection and personal evolution
• What is the overall contrast between the resolutions of "Prelude" and "Afternoons"?

  "Prelude" offers a narrative progression towards maturity, while "Afternoons" presents a static portrait of life
• What are the key differences in the poets' perspectives on life as expressed in "Prelude" and "Afternoons"?

  • Wordsworth: Celebrates personal growth and nature's beauty
  • Larkin: Reveals despondency and confinement in domestic life
  • Both express longing but in different contexts
• What literary movement is Wordsworth associated with?

  Romanticism
• What year was Larkin's "Afternoons" published?

  1967
• What year was Wordsworth's "Prelude" published?

  1850
• What does the term "existential ennui" refer to in the context of Larkin's "Afternoons"?

  A feeling of dissatisfaction and boredom with life
• How do both poets invoke a sense of longing in their works?

  By exploring themes of personal growth and unfulfilled aspirations