Vinegar (by Roger McGough) Poem for Roger McGough (by Adrian Henri)

sometimes A nun in a supermarket
i feel like a priest standing in the queue
in a fish and chips queue Wondering what it’s like
quietly thinking To buy groceries for two.
as the vinegar runs through (1967)
how nice it would be
to buy supper for two
(1967)

1. What is the effect of letting a priest be the main character of this poem?
2. Message: what does Roger McGough want to express in his poem?
3. In what way can this poem be seen as a comment to Roger McGough’s poem?
4. What is the message of this poem?
5. Which of the two poems do you think is better and why?

Someone here will be happy to check over what YOU THINK the answers are.

1. The effect of letting a priest be the main character of this poem is to create a sense of introspection and contemplation. Priests are often associated with religious duties and moral guidance, so having a priest as the main character adds a layer of seriousness and reflection to the speaker's thoughts.

2. The message that Roger McGough wants to express in his poem is a reflection on the mundane experiences of everyday life, such as standing in a queue at a fish and chips shop. The speaker contemplates the simple act of buying supper for two, perhaps longing for a connection or companionship in their life.

3. This poem can be seen as a comment on Roger McGough's poem by taking a similar theme or scenario and presenting a contrasting perspective. While McGough's poem focuses on the thoughts of a priest, this poem brings in a nun in a supermarket, symbolizing a different perspective or perspective on similar mundane experiences.

4. The message of this poem is that even in the most ordinary and routine moments, there can be a deep longing for connection and companionship. It highlights the desire for sharing life's experiences with another person.

5. It is subjective to determine which poem is better as it depends on personal preference. Both poems offer different perspectives and approaches to exploring similar themes. Some may prefer the introspective tone of McGough's poem, while others might resonate more with the relatable imagery in Henri's poem. Ultimately, the choice of which poem is better depends on the reader's interpretation and personal connection to the themes presented.

1. The effect of letting a priest be the main character in "Vinegar" is to create juxtaposition and irony. Priests are typically associated with religious rituals and spirituality, while a fish and chips queue is mundane and ordinary. This contrast highlights the speaker's sense of feeling out of place and longing for something different.

2. The message that Roger McGough wants to express in his poem "Vinegar" is a desire for companionship or shared experiences. The speaker yearns to buy supper for two instead of being alone, emphasizing the importance of human connection and the feeling of missing out on a deeper connection in life.

3. "Poem for Roger McGough" by Adrian Henri can be seen as a comment on Roger McGough's poem "Vinegar" by presenting an alternative perspective or response. It serves as a tribute to McGough and reflects on similar themes of longing and companionship, possibly expanding on or offering different insights into the ideas presented in McGough's poem.

4. The message of "Poem for Roger McGough" is also centered around the longing for companionship and shared experiences. It further explores the speaker's curiosity about what it would be like to shop for groceries for two, suggesting a desire for a deeper connection or partnership in life.

5. The preference for one poem over the other is subjective and may depend on personal taste or interpretation. Both poems convey similar themes with their own unique style and perspective. Some may prefer the simplicity and vivid imagery of "Vinegar" by Roger McGough, while others may appreciate the introspective and reflective nature of "Poem for Roger McGough" by Adrian Henri. Ultimately, it is up to the reader to decide which poem resonates with them more and why.