Blessing by Imtiaz Dharker - Poem Analysis

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Voice in 'Blessing'

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The poem uses a collective voice to represent the community's shared experience.

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Context of 'Blessing'

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The poem is set in a slum in India, highlighting issues of poverty and scarcity of water.

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Themes in 'Blessing'

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Major themes include scarcity, community, and the preciousness of water.

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Big Ideas in 'Blessing'

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The poem explores the impact of water scarcity and the communal joy when water is available.

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Simile/ vivid imagery in 'Blessing'

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Vivid imagery of water and its effects, such as 'the skin cracks like a pod'.

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Tone of 'Blessing'

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The tone shifts from despair to joy, reflecting the community's reaction to water.

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Linguistic Features in 'Blessing'

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Use of personification of water e.g., 'the voice of a kindly god'.

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Structural Choices in 'Blessing'

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The poem's structure mirrors the flow of water, with a few short lines representing the limited water and then a long stanza and enjambment to reflect the water explosion.

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Use of Form in 'Blessing'

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Free verse form reflects the unpredictability of water availability.

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Effect on Reader of 'Blessing'

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The poem evokes empathy and a deeper understanding of water's value.