Analysing the poem 'Mother, any distance' by Simon Armitage
I can analyse how Armitage uses literary methods to portray the complexities of a mother-son relationship.
Analysing the poem 'Mother, any distance' by Simon Armitage
I can analyse how Armitage uses literary methods to portray the complexities of a mother-son relationship.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Armitage uses an extended metaphor to compare an expansive new house to the growing distance in a relationship.
- Armitage uses symbolism to represent the bond between the mother and son that exists despite the growing detachment.
- Armitage uses metaphors to convey the complex and nuanced maternal relationship in light of the physical separation.
- Armitage conveys how the speaker's future is uncertain without the proximity and support of their mother.
Keywords
Temporal - relating to the passing of time
Explicit - clearly stated or expressed, without ambiguity
Implicit - implied or understood though not directly expressed
Vignette - a brief descriptive scene that focuses on a particular moment
Symbolism - representing abstract ideas, themes, or concepts through concrete objects, actions, or images
Common misconception
The speaker mourns the growing distance between him and his mother.
This is just one interpretation of the text; we could also infer that the speaker has felt stifled by their mother's involvement in their life until now and yearns for their independence.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Analysing the poem 'Mother, any distance' by Simon Armitage, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Analysing the poem 'Mother, any distance' by Simon Armitage, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the 'Love and Relationships' unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need access to the poem 'Mother, any distance' by Simon Armitage. This can be found in the AQA Love and Relationships Poetry Anthology.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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