Exploring themes of love in 'You Are' and 'Mum Says She Loves Me' | Exit Quiz | Oak National Academy

‘You Are’ and ‘Mum Says She Loves Me’ are both poems written by ...

• John Lyons

• Valerie Bloom

• Grace Nichols

Answer explanation

Valerie has enjoyed writing from a young age.

Which of the following are true?

• A poem Valerie wrote in primary school was published in a newspaper.

• Valerie was born in the UK.

• Valerie’s poems often include Caribbean dialects, humour and storytelling.

Answer explanation

Valerie’s poetry is known for its musicality, rhythm and vivid imagery. She frequently uses Caribbean dialects, humour and storytelling techniques to explore themes of identity, family, culture and everyday life.

What is imagery?

• a big idea, topic or message that recurs within a text

• the use of language to create a mental picture or sensory experience

• a way of describing and comparing something by saying that it is something else

Answer explanation

‘You Are’ is a four verse poem. The poem contains lots of imagery.

What is a metaphor?

• a way of describing and comparing something by saying that it is something else

• the repetition of the same sound found at the start of words close together

• a way of describing a non-living thing as if it acts or feels like a human

Answer explanation

Metaphors are used throughout the poem, 'You are'. They are a way of describing and comparing something by saying that it is something else.

Which of the following is an example of metaphor?

• He's the compass of our friendship.

• He is like the wind.

• Together, we share moments of joy and triumph.

Answer explanation

Metaphors are different to similes which compare something using the terms ‘like’ or ‘as’.

What is the common theme explored through the poems, 'You are' and ‘Mum Says She Loves Me’?

• nature

• science

• love

Answer explanation

Poems can be based on similar themes and they can convey a range of different feelings and emotions.