Rain

Question 1

Summarise the poem

Answer 1

Poet is alone in a hut, thinking about the inevitability and relief of death.

Question 2

What paradox is in the poem?

Answer 2

Thomas has contradictory feelings about death. He says the dead are “blessed” suggesting it’s a relief but also “pray(s) that none whom once I loved is dying to-night” meaning he actually wouldn’t want anyone he loves to die.

Question 3

Why might have Thomas written the poem?

Answer 3

To teach that only death is certain and final and that even something so sentimental as love can disappoint.

Question 4

How does Thomas convey feelings about death?

Answer 4

• By suggesting that death provided relief for many as it was certain.
• Uses religious allusions in “Blessed are the dead that the rain rains upon”
• Means it was a relief to die
• Suggests the rain is cleansing the dead of their sins, like a baptism or ablution
• “Blessed”- lucky, now with God
• Teaches that only death is certain and love can disappoint