Kamikaze by Beatrice Garland

• What is the origin of the word "heaven" in the poem?

  It originates from the Japanese word "haminare," meaning divine wind.
• What does the term "divine wind" refer to in the context of the poem?

  It refers to a wind that scattered an invading fleet in 1250.
• How does the samurai sword symbolize the speaker's feelings in the poem?

  The samurai sword conveys the speaker's love for nature and his sense of duty.
• What emotional state does the speaker express regarding his past decisions?

  The speaker feels sorrowful and pitiful about his choices.
• What is the structure of the poem?

  • Narrative and scanner in 3rd person
  • First stanzas ordered to reflect the speaker's mission
  • Final stanzas are longer to represent the weight of his decisions
• What does the phrase "my mother never spoke again" signify in the poem?

  It gives a personal viewpoint on the speaker's emotional turmoil.
• What does cowardice or surrender represent in wartime Japan according to the poem?

  It represents great shame for the individual and their family.
• What internal conflict does the speaker experience regarding his decision to return home?

  The speaker wonders if returning home was a better choice than fighting.
• What does the poem explore regarding the speaker's journey?

  • The journey towards battle
  • The decision to return home
  • The shunning he faces upon returning
• How does the beauty of nature affect the speaker's feelings as he looks at the sea?

  The beauty of nature and memories of childhood make him want to turn back.