So I already post a question however I forgot to write the definition of "conventional phrases" so here it is:Meaning beyond literal meaning
Ex. – if a character is making
his/her bed or making the bed
narrow, the speaker is preparing
for death
My questions are what are the conventional phrases in the Ballad of Birmingham and what is the significance of the question and answer format.
What does the question and answer format mean? What is the mother trying to accomplish by telling the child she can't go to the march? And what is the significance of the girl's desire to "make the country free"? Contrast that with the bomb that takes the girl's life.
"Conventional phrases" still baffles me. The example is a metaphor. It may be "conventional" in some patois, as in common speech, but it's still a metaphor in literary terms. There are some adjective phrases and some contrasts here that have meaning, as in white gloves on the mother's brown hands that may be "conventional", but that's not how I would describe them. "rose petal sweet" is a common image. Is that what your text materials mean? I don't know.
con·ven·tion·al
[kənˈven(t)SH(ə)n(ə)l]
ADJECTIVE
based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed:
"a conventional morality had dictated behavior"
synonyms: normal · standard · regular · ordinary · usual · traditional · [more]
(of a person) concerned with what is generally held to be acceptable at the expense of individuality and sincerity.
(of a work of art or literature) following traditional forms and genres:
"conventional love poetry"
synonyms: orthodox · traditional · established · [more]
(of weapons or power) nonnuclear:
"agreement on reducing conventional forces in Europe"
bridge
(of a bid) intended to convey a particular meaning according to an agreed upon convention. Often contrasted with natural.
To identify the conventional phrases in the poem "Ballad of Birmingham" and understand the significance of the question and answer format, you can follow these steps:
1. Read the poem: Start by reading the entire poem "Ballad of Birmingham" by Dudley Randall. Pay close attention to the language used and any phrases that stand out.
2. Identify figurative language: Since conventional phrases often involve figurative language, look for metaphors, similes, personification, or any other poetic devices in the poem. For example, phrases like "the princess in her flowered hat" or "For when she heard the explosion, her eyes grew wet and wild" may be potential conventional phrases.
3. Analyze context and meaning: Once you've identified potential conventional phrases, analyze their context and consider their figurative meanings beyond their literal definitions. Reflect on how these phrases contribute to the overall themes or emotions conveyed in the poem.
4. Consider historical or cultural references: The conventional phrases in the poem might also incorporate historical or cultural references that lend additional meaning or significance. Explore any connections between the phrases and the historical events or social issues the poem addresses.
Regarding the question and answer format in the poem, you can consider the following:
- The question and answer format creates a dialogue within the poem, enhancing its narrative quality. It mimics the conversation between a concerned child (the speaker) and a protective mother.
- This format intensifies the emotional impact of the poem. The contrast between the child's innocence and the harsh realities of racial violence depicted in the answers generates a sense of tragedy and irony.
- The back-and-forth structure of the questions and answers emphasizes the mother's attempts to protect her child, highlighting her concern for safety, and the chilling replies heighten the dramatic tension.
By following these steps, you should be able to identify the conventional phrases within the poem and gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the question and answer format in "Ballad of Birmingham."