English

• What is the setting of the poem "The Bargain"?

  Barmours Market in Glasgow
• What does the river in January symbolize in the poem?

  It suggests a fast and high relationship
• What does the phrase "relationship isn't going" imply?

  It suggests a lack of progress in the relationship
• What does the speaker's uncertainty about the relationship signify?

  It reflects doubt about the future
• What does the lack of punctuation in the poem highlight?

  Speaker's uncertainty about the relationship
• What does the juxtaposition in the poem suggest?

  Uncertainty about looking to the past or future
• How does the speaker feel about the music at the market?

  It suggests enjoyment but also distraction
• What does the phrase "splintering city" imply?

  It suggests fragmentation and disconnection
• What does the speaker want from their lover?

  Reassurance about their relationship
• What does "pathetic fallacy" refer to in the poem?

  Nature reflecting the speaker's emotions
• What does the "wetdog reek" symbolize in the poem?

  Neglect and unpleasantness in the relationship
• What does the phrase "we hadn't the stomach for it today" suggest?

  They are unwilling to engage with the market
• What does the speaker mean by "we don't deserve a bargain then"?

  They feel unworthy of good things
• What does the phrase "real antique dirt cheap" imply?

  Value can be found in unexpected places
• What does the speaker's reflection on relationships suggest?

  Relationships require effort and hard work
• What does "everything has its price" imply about relationships?

  Relationships require sacrifices and compromises
• What does the speaker wish for regarding their relationship?

  To mend things or throw them away
• How does the poem reflect on the passing of time?

  It shows uncertainty and reflection on the past
• What are the main themes of the poem "The Bargain"?

  • Complex relationships
  • The power of significant places
  • The power of memory
  • The passing of time
• How does the poem use the setting of Glasgow to enhance its themes?

  • Reflects the speaker's feelings
  • Highlights the relationship's struggles
  • Connects personal experiences to the city
• What does the speaker's relationship with their lover reveal about their emotional state?

  • Feelings of insecurity and doubt
  • Desire for reassurance and connection
  • Awareness of the relationship's fragility
• How does the poem convey a sense of melancholy and stagnation?

  • Use of imagery related to coldness
  • References to the passing of time
  • Expressions of dissatisfaction in the relationship
• What role does memory play in the poem "The Bargain"?

  • Reflects on past experiences
  • Influences current feelings and decisions
  • Highlights the complexity of relationships
• How does the poem's structure contribute to its themes?

  • Lack of punctuation reflects uncertainty
  • Juxtaposition emphasizes conflicting emotions
  • Use of imagery creates a vivid sense of place