Christine Beck - 'Swans and Hearts'

The video discusses a poetry collection that intertwines themes of motherhood, religious upbringing, and meditations on Mary, the mother of Jesus. It focuses on a poem titled 'Swans and Hearts,' which serves as a talisman for the author. The poem reflects on the author's mother's knitting as a metaphor for motherhood, exploring themes of tradition, family, and instinct. The process of knitting Swans and Hearts is described, highlighting the symbolic connection between the craft and the complexities of mothering.

What is the central theme of the poem 'Swans and Hearts'?

• The beauty of nature

• The art of knitting

• The challenges of motherhood

• The journey of self-discovery

How did the speaker's mother cope with life's challenges?

• By knitting various items

• By writing poetry

• By gardening

• By painting landscapes

What did the speaker's daughter request for her fifth birthday?

• A pair of mittens

• A knitted hat

• A scarf with stars

• A sweater with swans and hearts

What did the speaker fear about her own instincts?

• That they were unreliable

• That they were like a coat rack

• That they were too emotional

• That they were too strong

What colors did the speaker choose for the sweater she knitted?

• Red and white

• Green and yellow

• Bright pink and turquoise

• Blue and orange