Poetry Analysis: Becoming My Mother

Questions and Answers

What does the speaker imply about their connection to their mother?

They share cultural traits. (correct)

They are physically identical.

They dislike each other.

They have no similarities.

What imagery is used to describe the mother’s hands?

Rough and masculine.

Smooth and delicate.

Always smelling of onions. (correct)

Covered in dirt.

What does the mother use to water the rare blooms?

Rainwater.

Plain water.

Tea. (correct)

Fruit juice.

What color is the mother’s linen dress described as?

<p>The color of the sky.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother use to help her deal with shame?

<p>Stored lace and damask tablecloths.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Identity and Transformation

Explores the theme of generational identity and transformation, illustrating how a daughter embodies her mother’s traits.
Repetition of "I am becoming my mother" emphasizes the deep connection and influence of maternal lineage.

Cultural and Sensory Imagery

Use of olfactory imagery: "fingers smelling always of onions" evokes a cultural heritage, suggesting familiarity and domesticity.
Visual imagery of "a linen dress the colour of the sky" represents beauty and perhaps an idealized memory of the mother.

Nature and Nurturing

Reference to "rare blooms" highlights the mother's nurturing qualities, indicating care and cultivation.
"Waters them with tea" symbolizes both nourishment and cultural practices, blending daily life with traditional values.

Emotional undertones

The phrase "to pull shame out of her eye" suggests struggles with societal expectations or personal identity, reflecting emotional depth and resilience.
The transformation is accompanied by a sense of acceptance and pride in one’s heritage and maternal qualities.

Color Symbolism

"Yellow/brown woman" denotes a specific ethnic identity, linking the daughter to her cultural roots and experiences.
The use of color throughout evokes a sense of warmth, connection to heritage, and possibly societal themes of race and identity.

Recurring Themes

The poem encapsulates the cyclical nature of life and identity, where personal attributes are passed down and evolve.
Conveys a sense of continuity and strength found in embracing familial bonds and cultural backgrounds.

Description

Explore the poignant themes and vivid imagery in Lorna Goodson's poem 'I Am Becoming My Mother'. This quiz delves into the author's portrayal of heritage, identity, and the female experience. Test your understanding of the poem's elements and insights.