Valentine

Question 1

Not a red rose or a satin heart

Answer 1

• Immediately, Duffy begins by dismissing stereotypical/ traditional symbols of love
• This abrupt opening signifies that the speaker is sincere and realistic
• Speaker’s aversion to the traditional symbols of love are clear

• Rose = a flower – although beautiful, this beauty is transient – therefore ephemerality of most relationships

Question 2

I give you an onion” (conceit of an onion)

Answer 2

• Conceit of an onion – an unusual choice of a romantic symbol, which juxtaposes with traditional romantic symbols

Question 3

It will blind you with tears

Answer 3

• Shift in tone – more serious
• Speaker depicts the harsh realities of love
• Like an onion, love can induce tears

Question 4

It will make your reflection a wobbling photo of grief

Answer 4

• ‘Wobbling photo’ = oxymoronic – distressing effects of love – causes even something as stationary as a photo to be disfigured

Question 5

Take it. It’s platinum loops shrink to a wedding-ring

Question 6

Its scent will cling to your fingers, cling to your knife

Question 7

Context

Answer 7

• Valentine’s Day = traditionally a celebration of Romantic relationships, but is increasing associated with consumerism and materialism // Duffy is critical of performative acts of love
• Duffy was in a 12 year relationship with the never-faithful Adrian Henri – which likely shaped her views on relationships and fidelity
• Today, she is openly bisexual, and continues to break conventional boundaries in order to express herself freely
• Often tackles difficult subjects, encouraging the reader to explore alternative points of view
• Became first female Poet Laureate in 2009

Question 8

Form + structure

Answer 8

• Written in free verse, using stanzas and lines of irregular length.
• Rejecting traditional poetic conventions is mimetic Duffy’s dismissal of restrictive conventions of such as marriage as well as the unpredictability of love which fluctuates, mirrored by the uneven line lengths
• Words often stark and monosyllabic — allow Duffy to present her ideas without ambiguity = straight to the point, matter of fact tone