Questions and Answers
What is a kamikaze?
What is a samurai sword?
A traditional Japanese sword
What are cairns?
Piles of stones, usually to mark something
What are breakers?
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What is the main theme of the poem about the kamikaze pilot?
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How is the poem 'Kamikaze' narrated?
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What ironic treatment does the pilot receive upon returning home?
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What literary techniques are used to emphasize the beauty of nature in the poem?
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How does direct speech function in the poem?
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What does the opening stanza of the poem suggest about the pilot's feelings of duty?
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What is the reaction of the pilot's wife upon his return?
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What sense does the pilot's daughter feel in the final stanzas?
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What themes are conveyed through references to family life in the poem?
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Study Notes
Kamikaze Pilots
- Kamikaze refers to Japanese pilots in WW2 who executed suicide missions against enemy ships.
- Their actions were considered an honorable service to their country.
Poem Overview
- The narrative begins with a kamikaze pilot embarking on a mission, but he ultimately returns home.
- The pilot's change of heart is linked to the beauty of nature and childhood memories.
- Upon returning, the pilot faces ostracism from his family and community.
Narration and Perspective
- The poem is primarily told in the third person through the voice of the pilot's daughter.
- Her direct speech later in the poem provides a deeper emotional context and personal impact.
- The absence of the pilot's voice symbolizes his disconnection from society.
Structure and Form
- Consists of seven stanzas with six lines each; no rhyme scheme or regular rhythm.
- The first five stanzas narrate the pilot's imagined flight, leading up to the act of turning back.
- The final stanzas address the aftermath and consequences of his actions.
Use of Irony
- Irony is present in the pilot's return and the family's reaction, treating him as if he is dead despite his choice to live.
Imagery and Themes
- Natural imagery includes similes and metaphors that convey the beauty and power of nature, influencing the pilot's decision.
- Mentions of family life highlight the connections and responsibilities tied to familial relationships.
- The narrative reflects on themes of patriotism, shame, and regret surrounding the decisions made during war.
Emotional Impact
- The wife's shame and silence toward the pilot enhance the themes of loss and judgment.
- The daughter's reflections express regret and empathy for her father, emphasizing the personal toll of war on families.
Timeless Connection to the Sea
- References to the sea represent traditional life, evoking nostalgia through vivid imagery of fishing, colors, and sensory experiences.
- These memories signify the life and relationships sacrificed due to the pilot's actions.
Final Reflections
- The poem invites readers to contemplate the harsh judgments faced by the pilot and the morality of suicide missions in warfare.
- It underscores the lasting consequences of war on individual lives and family dynamics.
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Description
Explore key terms and concepts from the poem 'Kamikaze' through these flashcards. Each card offers a definition to deepen your understanding of the themes and imagery related to the poem. Perfect for students studying literature or Japanese culture.