Hide and Seek by Vernon Scannell

Context of 'Hide and Seek'

• Written by Vernon Scannell, the poem reflects feelings of abandonment as Scannell abandoned the army and went on the run.

• The poem is primarily about the joys of childhood and playing games with friends.

• The poem explores themes of nature and the beauty of the outdoors.

• It is a narrative poem that tells the story of a lost child in a forest.

Alliteration in 'Hide and Seek'

• The poem uses alliteration to create rhythm and emphasis, such as 'silent shadows' to enhance the mood.

• The poem uses rhyme to create a musical quality, such as 'night light' to enhance the mood.

• The poem uses metaphor to convey deeper meanings, such as 'whispers of the wind' to enhance the mood.

• The poem uses simile to draw comparisons, such as 'as quiet as a mouse' to enhance the mood.

Contrast in 'Hide and Seek'

• The poem highlights the joy of childhood without any challenges.

• The poem contrasts the innocence of childhood with the harsh realities of growing up, highlighting the theme of lost innocence.

• The poem focuses solely on the fun of playing games during childhood.

• The poem suggests that growing up is a seamless transition without any loss.

Contrast in 'Hide and Seek'

• The poem highlights the joy of childhood play without any deeper meaning.

• The poem contrasts the innocence of childhood with the harsh realities of growing up, highlighting the theme of lost innocence.

• The poem focuses solely on the game of hide and seek without any emotional context.

• The poem celebrates the carefree nature of adulthood compared to childhood.

Imagery in 'Hide and Seek'

• The poem uses strong visual imagery to create a vivid picture of the game, such as 'They’ll never find you in this salty dark,'

• The poem describes the sounds of children playing in the park.

• The poem focuses on the emotions of loneliness and despair.

• The poem illustrates the rules of the game in a straightforward manner.

Big Ideas in 'Hide and Seek'

• The poem explores the idea of growing up and the loss of innocence.

• The poem focuses on the joy of childhood games.

• The poem describes the beauty of nature.

• The poem reflects on the importance of friendship.

Historical Context of 'Hide and Seek'

• The poem reflects the uncertainty and rebuilding of identity during the post-war era.

• The poem was written during the Renaissance period, focusing on themes of love and nature.

• The poem critiques modern technology and its impact on human relationships.

• The poem celebrates the carefree nature of childhood in a pre-war society.

Linguistic Techniques in 'Hide and Seek'

• Use of vivid imagery and personification, e.g., 'The bushes hold their breath.'

• Incorporation of rhyme and meter to create rhythm.

• Use of alliteration and assonance for sound effects.

• Application of metaphor and simile to enhance meaning.

Themes in 'Hide and Seek'

• Childhood, innocence, and the transition to adulthood

• Friendship, loyalty, and betrayal

• Adventure, exploration, and discovery

• Fear, anxiety, and isolation

Emotional Journey in 'Hide and Seek'

• The poem explores the joy of winning the game.

• The poem takes the reader on an emotional journey from excitement to solitude and loss.

• The poem focuses solely on the rules of the game.

• The poem describes the physical aspects of playing hide and seek.