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Higher english- mrs midas annotated poem- carol ann duffy
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21 May 2023
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Annotated Mrs Midas Poem Higher English: Line by Line, Summary, PDF, Analysis, and More!
kaitlin mcaโค๏ธโ๐ฅ๐๐
@kaitlinmcarthur_x
Page 2: The Aftermath and Separation
The second page of this annotated Mrs Midas poem higher English text delves deeper into the consequences of Midas' golden touch on the couple's relationship and daily life.
Mrs. Midas' attempts to cope with the situation are both practical and poignant. She moves the phone, locks away the cat, and makes her husband sit at a distance, illustrating the immediate impact on their physical intimacy.
Example: The line "I served up the meal. For starters, corn on the cob. Within seconds he was spitting out the teeth of the rich" provides a vivid and darkly humorous image of how Midas' gift affects even the simplest activities.
The poem explores the loss of sensory pleasures, as Midas can no longer enjoy food or drink. The transformation of everyday objects into gold is described with rich imagery, such as the "golden chalice" that was once a simple wine glass.
As the reality of their situation sets in, Mrs. Midas grapples with anger and resentment. Her rhetorical question, "Do you know about gold?" emphasizes the futility and emptiness of Midas' wish.
Highlight: The line "who has wishes granted? Him" reflects Mrs. Midas' bitterness and the unfairness she perceives in their situation.
The poem then shifts to the long-term consequences of Midas' transformation. The couple must sleep in separate beds, and Mrs. Midas fears physical contact with her husband. This physical separation symbolizes the emotional distance growing between them.
A poignant dream sequence reveals Mrs. Midas' deep-seated desires and fears. The image of a golden child with "amber eyes holding their pupils like flies" is both beautiful and disturbing, highlighting the loss of potential for a normal family life.
Quote: "And who, when it comes to the crunch, can live with a heart of gold?"
This rhetorical question encapsulates the central conflict of the poem โ the impossibility of maintaining a human connection with someone who has lost their humanity to greed.
The poem concludes with Mrs. Midas reflecting on her life after separating from her husband. She sold their possessions and moved away, but still thinks of him, particularly missing "his warm hands on my skin, his touch." This bittersweet ending emphasizes the lasting impact of Midas' foolish wish on both their lives.
Definition: In literature, the Midas touch refers to the ability to make money or succeed in any venture, but in this poem, it is literally interpreted as a curse that turns everything to gold.
This Mrs Midas poem analysis reveals how Carol Ann Duffy masterfully reimagines the classic myth, using it to explore themes of love, loss, and the consequences of unchecked desire. The poem serves as a powerful commentary on the value of human connection over material wealth.
Page 1: The Golden Curse Begins
The first page of the Mrs Midas poem analysis introduces the setting and the initial discovery of Midas' new ability. The narrator, Mrs. Midas, describes a seemingly normal evening that quickly turns extraordinary.
The poem opens with Mrs. Midas relaxing in the kitchen, creating a calm atmosphere that sharply contrasts with the events to come. The use of personification in describing the kitchen "filled with the smell of itself" establishes a sense of normalcy and comfort.
Highlight: The line "I opened one, then with my fingers wiped the other's glass like a brow" foreshadows the importance of touch in the poem, as Mr. Midas will soon be unable to touch anything safely.
As Mrs. Midas looks out into the garden, she notices her husband standing under a pear tree. The visibility is poor, but she sees that the twig in his hand has turned to gold. This moment marks the beginning of their troubles.
Quote: "that twig in his hand was gold. And then he plucked a pear from a branch - we grew Fondante d'Automne - and it sat in his palm, like a lightbulb. On."
The comparison of the golden pear to a lightbulb emphasizes the unnatural and alarming nature of Midas' new ability. The mention of "late September" adds to the autumnal imagery and suggests a time of change and ending.
As Mr. Midas enters the house, the full extent of his golden touch becomes apparent. The narrator's disbelief is evident in her thoughts of "the Field of the Cloth of Gold and of Miss Macready," references that highlight the absurdity of the situation.
Vocabulary: The "Field of the Cloth of Gold" refers to a historical meeting between the Kings of England and France, known for its lavish display of wealth.
The page concludes with Mrs. Midas' growing horror as she realizes the implications of her husband's new power. Her scream and his laughter create a powerful contrast, setting the stage for the conflict to come.
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Annotated Mrs Midas Poem Higher English: Line by Line, Summary, PDF, Analysis, and More!
kaitlin mcaโค๏ธโ๐ฅ๐๐
@kaitlinmcarthur_x
The Mrs Midas poem by Carol Ann Duffy explores the consequences of King Midas' golden touch from his wife's perspective. This annotated Mrs Midas poem higher English summary provides:
- A detailed analysis of the poem's structure, language, and themes
- Insights... Show more
Page 2: The Aftermath and Separation
The second page of this annotated Mrs Midas poem higher English text delves deeper into the consequences of Midas' golden touch on the couple's relationship and daily life.
Mrs. Midas' attempts to cope with the situation are both practical and poignant. She moves the phone, locks away the cat, and makes her husband sit at a distance, illustrating the immediate impact on their physical intimacy.
Example: The line "I served up the meal. For starters, corn on the cob. Within seconds he was spitting out the teeth of the rich" provides a vivid and darkly humorous image of how Midas' gift affects even the simplest activities.
The poem explores the loss of sensory pleasures, as Midas can no longer enjoy food or drink. The transformation of everyday objects into gold is described with rich imagery, such as the "golden chalice" that was once a simple wine glass.
As the reality of their situation sets in, Mrs. Midas grapples with anger and resentment. Her rhetorical question, "Do you know about gold?" emphasizes the futility and emptiness of Midas' wish.
Highlight: The line "who has wishes granted? Him" reflects Mrs. Midas' bitterness and the unfairness she perceives in their situation.
The poem then shifts to the long-term consequences of Midas' transformation. The couple must sleep in separate beds, and Mrs. Midas fears physical contact with her husband. This physical separation symbolizes the emotional distance growing between them.
A poignant dream sequence reveals Mrs. Midas' deep-seated desires and fears. The image of a golden child with "amber eyes holding their pupils like flies" is both beautiful and disturbing, highlighting the loss of potential for a normal family life.
Quote: "And who, when it comes to the crunch, can live with a heart of gold?"
This rhetorical question encapsulates the central conflict of the poem โ the impossibility of maintaining a human connection with someone who has lost their humanity to greed.
The poem concludes with Mrs. Midas reflecting on her life after separating from her husband. She sold their possessions and moved away, but still thinks of him, particularly missing "his warm hands on my skin, his touch." This bittersweet ending emphasizes the lasting impact of Midas' foolish wish on both their lives.
Definition: In literature, the Midas touch refers to the ability to make money or succeed in any venture, but in this poem, it is literally interpreted as a curse that turns everything to gold.
This Mrs Midas poem analysis reveals how Carol Ann Duffy masterfully reimagines the classic myth, using it to explore themes of love, loss, and the consequences of unchecked desire. The poem serves as a powerful commentary on the value of human connection over material wealth.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 1: The Golden Curse Begins
The first page of the Mrs Midas poem analysis introduces the setting and the initial discovery of Midas' new ability. The narrator, Mrs. Midas, describes a seemingly normal evening that quickly turns extraordinary.
The poem opens with Mrs. Midas relaxing in the kitchen, creating a calm atmosphere that sharply contrasts with the events to come. The use of personification in describing the kitchen "filled with the smell of itself" establishes a sense of normalcy and comfort.
Highlight: The line "I opened one, then with my fingers wiped the other's glass like a brow" foreshadows the importance of touch in the poem, as Mr. Midas will soon be unable to touch anything safely.
As Mrs. Midas looks out into the garden, she notices her husband standing under a pear tree. The visibility is poor, but she sees that the twig in his hand has turned to gold. This moment marks the beginning of their troubles.
Quote: "that twig in his hand was gold. And then he plucked a pear from a branch - we grew Fondante d'Automne - and it sat in his palm, like a lightbulb. On."
The comparison of the golden pear to a lightbulb emphasizes the unnatural and alarming nature of Midas' new ability. The mention of "late September" adds to the autumnal imagery and suggests a time of change and ending.
As Mr. Midas enters the house, the full extent of his golden touch becomes apparent. The narrator's disbelief is evident in her thoughts of "the Field of the Cloth of Gold and of Miss Macready," references that highlight the absurdity of the situation.
Vocabulary: The "Field of the Cloth of Gold" refers to a historical meeting between the Kings of England and France, known for its lavish display of wealth.
The page concludes with Mrs. Midas' growing horror as she realizes the implications of her husband's new power. Her scream and his laughter create a powerful contrast, setting the stage for the conflict to come.
We thought youโd never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us โ and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user