Catrin

• What does Gillian Clarke's poem "Catrin" explore?

  Mother-daughter relationship and its conflicts
• What significant event does the speaker refer to in the poem?

  The birth of her daughter
• What does the umbilical cord symbolize in the poem?

  The initial connection between mother and child
• How does the poem depict the evolution of the mother-daughter relationship?

  It shows conflict changing form over time
• What does the daughter ask for in the present tense of the poem?

  To skate for longer
• What does the title "Catrin" suggest about the poem's focus?

  It suggests a female-centric relationship
• Who is Gillian Clarke?

  A Welsh poet and playwright
• What awards has Gillian Clarke received?

  Queen's Gold for poetry and Wilfred Owen Award
• What theme does Clarke often write about in her poetry?

  Motherhood and nature
• What does the phrase "hot, white Room" convey in the poem?

  A claustrophobic and uncomfortable atmosphere
• How does enjambment function in Clarke's poem?

  It reflects the changing dynamic in relationships
• What are the two clear stanzas in "Catrin" about?

  • First stanza: Catrin's difficult birth (past tense)
  • Second stanza: Present conflict over independence
• What does the metaphor "the tight rope of love" represent?

  The umbilical cord and maternal connection
• What does the poem's direct address imply?

  Intimacy between mother and daughter
• What does the absence of the name "Catrin" throughout the poem suggest?

  Universality of motherhood's relevance
• How does the poem reflect the theme of separation?

  Through the changing dynamics as Catrin grows
• What is the significance of the poem's setting?

  It reflects the mood and tone of the relationship
• What does the phrase "glass tank clouded with feelings" suggest?

  Complex emotions affecting their relationship
• How does the poem's structure emphasize the passage of time?

  By dividing stanzas into past and present tense
• What does the poem suggest about conflict in mother-child relationships?

  It never fully ends, only changes form
• What does the term "epithet" mean in the context of the poem's title?

  When the title is named after a person
• How does Clarke's background influence her poetry?

  Her experience with motherhood shapes her themes
• What does the poem reveal about the nature of love?

  It is intertwined with conflict and separation