8 marker

• in eight marker, link poems back to THE QUESTION. not the other poem.
• Commonality - mother/daughter relationship question. 


  In ‘Keeping Orchids’, Kay explores a mother/daughter relationship through the symbolism of orchids. The orchids symbolise the fragile relationship between the persona and her mother. In ‘Whilst Leila Sleeps’, Kay explores a mother/daughter relationship as they flee for safety. The poem explores their close, protective bond and how it is crucial that they flee together as a mother and child.
• named poem (if keeping orchids)

  In keeping orchids, the mother and daughter have an unconventional and fragile relationship. “Closed as secrets” this simile and use of imagery suggests that her mother, much like the orchids, never fully reveals herself to her daughter or gives her the answers about her life before adoption that she desires. their relationship is distant and she is clearly keeping secrets. This shows that they do not have a normal mother/daughter relationship, it is almost impersonal and she does not really know her
• other poem (if named is keeping orchids)


  In whilst Leila Sleeps, the persona and her daughter have a very close relationship. “Leila is a bundle” This usage of imagery suggests that she wants her child to be wrapped up and protected, and also possibly sees her as helpless, knowing that she and her child will not be treated as people by those she is running from. This shows that she cares deeply about Leila and they have a very close mother/daughter relationship.
• Other poem 2 (if keeping orchids is provided) 


  In Whilst Leila Sleeps, mother/daughter relationships are explored once more with a partially hopeful reminder of the persona’s positive relationship with her daughter as her daughter tugs on her coat. “she holds on” this suggests that she is both physically holding onto her, and metaphorically holding onto hope. It shows the security in their mother-daughter relationship, and that they will always be there for each other no matter what. Their relationship is explored through love and care.
• We see the theme of mother daughter relationships portrayed once more in keeping orchids. “So does/cutting the stems with a sharp knife“ the poet uses emjambment, breaking up the line between two stanzas, to suggest her own separation from her mother. This action is harsh and somewhat sudden, further implying that her relationship with her mother is closed off and finished. Their relationship is completely cut and they will no longer attempt at contact.
• If the provided poem is lucozade 


  In the poem, the theme of mother daughter relationships is explored through a persona’s spiralling mental state in hospital. “I am scared my mum is going to die” this short, blunt sentence suggests Kay’s genuine anxiety regarding her mother. it also emphasises her age, and love for the woman who has looked after her, and the helplessness she feels towards her now. This shows that they have a close, loving relationship.