Understanding the poem 'Storm on the Island'
I can explain how Heaney presents the power of nature and ‘The Troubles’ of Northern Ireland in ‘Storm on the Island’.
Understanding the poem 'Storm on the Island'
I can explain how Heaney presents the power of nature and ‘The Troubles’ of Northern Ireland in ‘Storm on the Island’.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- ‘Storm on the Island’ can be read as a poem about the power of nature on the Aran Islands.
- Heaney may have been influenced by the conflict between Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland.
- ‘Storm on the Island’ was published in 1996, when the IRA were carrying out military operations in Northern Ireland.
- The storm can be read as an extended metaphor for ‘The Troubles’.
- 'The Troubles' refers to a violent thirty-year civil conflict in Ireland which led to around 3,500 deaths.
Keywords
Extended Metaphor - a metaphor that extends over the course of several lines
Civil - relating to citizens of the same country
Unrest - a state of disturbance, involving public disorder
Common misconception
There is only one interpretation of the poem 'Storm on the Island'.
The poem can be a reflection of the power of nature, conflict between humans and nature, the political conflict or all.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding the poem 'Storm on the Island', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding the poem 'Storm on the Island', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the 'Power and Conflict' unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need a copy of the AQA Power & Conflict Poetry Anthology for GCSE.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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