1. What connotations does the word ‘lonely’ have for you? 2. What is the difference between being lonely and being alone?
3. When do you think most people feel lonely? In particular places? At particular times of the day or of the year? At certain ages?
COMPREHENDING AND RESPONDING
1. Do you think the title of this poem suits the content? Give reasons for your answer.
2. Why, in your opinion, has the poet chosen to structure this poem in the way he has?
3. Which image in this poem do you find most striking? Explain your answer. 4. What setting do you picture as you read this poem and why do you picture it? 5. How would you describe the tone of this poem? Give reasons for your answer. 6. Explain the last stanza of this poem in your own words. 7. What, in your opinion, is the theme of this poem? 8. Compare this poem with one other Kennelly poem with a similar theme.
CREATING
1. Write an email to a friend describing a poem or a song that you know you will never forget. Give as much detail about the poem or song as possible and explain why it had such an impact on you.
2. Write a short story about a character who suffers from insomnia.
3. Write a speech for a school assembly entitled ‘We live in an age of limitless communication, yet loneliness is the biggest problem facing society today.’
