The Kamikaze poemby Beatrice Garland explores the complex themes... Show more
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15 Mar 2023
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GCSE Kamikaze Poem Analysis PDF: Line by Line, Themes, Summary & Structure
Ellie Moore-Giles
@elliemg
Page 2: The Consequences of Choice
The second page of the Kamikaze poem structure analysis focuses on the aftermath of the pilot's decision to return home and its long-lasting impact on his family and community.
The poem continues to use vivid sensory imagery to describe the pilot's memories of fishing:
Quote: "salt-sodden, awash with cloud-marked mackerel, black crabs, feathery prawns, the loose silver of whitebait and once a tuna, the dark prince, muscular, dangerous."
This rich description emphasizes the stark contrast between the life-affirming natural world and the death-oriented mission he was expected to complete.
Highlight: The sibilance in these lines reflects the sounds of the ocean, further immersing the reader in the pilot's sensory experience.
The poem then shifts dramatically to describe the consequences of the pilot's return:
Quote: "And though he came back my mother never spoke again in his presence, nor did she meet his eyes"
This powerful statement illustrates the severe social and familial repercussions of the pilot's decision. The community's reaction is equally harsh:
Quote: "he came back nameless"
Vocabulary: Nameless - In this context, it suggests the pilot lost his identity and honor in the eyes of society.
The poem explores the concept of living death, where the pilot's physical survival leads to a form of social and emotional death:
Quote: "till gradually we too learned to be silent, to live as though he had never returned"
This poignant description highlights the lasting impact of the pilot's choice on his family and himself.
The poem concludes with a thought-provoking question:
Quote: "And sometimes, she said, he must have wondered which had been the better way to die."
This final line encapsulates the central theme of the poem, questioning the nature of honor, duty, and the true cost of survival in a society that values sacrifice above all.
Highlight: The shift to past tense in the final stanza suggests a reflective tone, possibly indicating the daughter's evolving understanding of her father's decision as she matures.
The Kamikaze poem themes of cultural expectations, personal choice, and the long-term consequences of decisions are powerfully conveyed through this structured narrative, making it a compelling piece for GCSE kamikaze poem analysis.
Page 1: The Pilot's Journey and Decision
The first page of the Kamikaze poem analysis PDF introduces the setting and the pilot's initial journey.
The poem opens with the line "Her father embarked at sunrise," immediately setting a solemn tone and introducing the narrator's perspective. The sunrise symbolizes the beginning of the pilot's fateful journey and alludes to Japan as "The Land of the Rising Sun."
The poem describes the pilot's preparation for his kamikaze mission, highlighting the cultural and military expectations placed upon him.
Vocabulary: Kamikaze - Japanese pilots tasked with suicide missions during World War II, expected to crash their planes into enemy targets.
The poet uses vivid imagery to describe the pilot's state of mind:
Quote: "a shaven head full of powerful incantations"
This line suggests the pilot's indoctrination and the spiritual preparation for his mission.
As the pilot begins his journey, the poem shifts to describe what he sees below:
Quote: "he must have looked far down at the little fishing boats strung out like bunting on a green-blue translucent sea"
This vivid description marks a turning point in the pilot's mindset, as the beauty of the natural world begins to influence his decision.
Highlight: The use of free verse allows the speaker to convey a tone of nostalgia and contemplation, mirroring the pilot's internal struggle.
The poem employs various literary devices to enhance its impact:
- Similes: "like bunting" compares the fishing boats to festive decorations, creating a contrast between the bleak mission and the vibrant world below.
- Metaphors: "a huge flag waved first one way then the other in a figure of eight" represents the pilot's indecision and the infinity symbol, suggesting he feels trapped by destiny.
Example: The "dark shoals of fishes flashing silver as their bellies swivelled towards the sun" symbolizes the significance of nature compared to human conflicts.
The page concludes with the pilot's memories of his childhood, fishing with his brothers and grandfather, foreshadowing his eventual decision to turn back.
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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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m 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 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m 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 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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
GCSE Kamikaze Poem Analysis PDF: Line by Line, Themes, Summary & Structure
Ellie Moore-Giles
@elliemg
The Kamikaze poem by Beatrice Garland explores the complex themes of duty, honor, and the consequences of personal choices in wartime Japan. This GCSE kamikaze poem analysisdelves into the structure, literary devices, and cultural context of the poem, offering... Show more
Page 2: The Consequences of Choice
The second page of the Kamikaze poem structure analysis focuses on the aftermath of the pilot's decision to return home and its long-lasting impact on his family and community.
The poem continues to use vivid sensory imagery to describe the pilot's memories of fishing:
Quote: "salt-sodden, awash with cloud-marked mackerel, black crabs, feathery prawns, the loose silver of whitebait and once a tuna, the dark prince, muscular, dangerous."
This rich description emphasizes the stark contrast between the life-affirming natural world and the death-oriented mission he was expected to complete.
Highlight: The sibilance in these lines reflects the sounds of the ocean, further immersing the reader in the pilot's sensory experience.
The poem then shifts dramatically to describe the consequences of the pilot's return:
Quote: "And though he came back my mother never spoke again in his presence, nor did she meet his eyes"
This powerful statement illustrates the severe social and familial repercussions of the pilot's decision. The community's reaction is equally harsh:
Quote: "he came back nameless"
Vocabulary: Nameless - In this context, it suggests the pilot lost his identity and honor in the eyes of society.
The poem explores the concept of living death, where the pilot's physical survival leads to a form of social and emotional death:
Quote: "till gradually we too learned to be silent, to live as though he had never returned"
This poignant description highlights the lasting impact of the pilot's choice on his family and himself.
The poem concludes with a thought-provoking question:
Quote: "And sometimes, she said, he must have wondered which had been the better way to die."
This final line encapsulates the central theme of the poem, questioning the nature of honor, duty, and the true cost of survival in a society that values sacrifice above all.
Highlight: The shift to past tense in the final stanza suggests a reflective tone, possibly indicating the daughter's evolving understanding of her father's decision as she matures.
The Kamikaze poem themes of cultural expectations, personal choice, and the long-term consequences of decisions are powerfully conveyed through this structured narrative, making it a compelling piece for GCSE kamikaze poem analysis.
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 Pilot's Journey and Decision
The first page of the Kamikaze poem analysis PDF introduces the setting and the pilot's initial journey.
The poem opens with the line "Her father embarked at sunrise," immediately setting a solemn tone and introducing the narrator's perspective. The sunrise symbolizes the beginning of the pilot's fateful journey and alludes to Japan as "The Land of the Rising Sun."
The poem describes the pilot's preparation for his kamikaze mission, highlighting the cultural and military expectations placed upon him.
Vocabulary: Kamikaze - Japanese pilots tasked with suicide missions during World War II, expected to crash their planes into enemy targets.
The poet uses vivid imagery to describe the pilot's state of mind:
Quote: "a shaven head full of powerful incantations"
This line suggests the pilot's indoctrination and the spiritual preparation for his mission.
As the pilot begins his journey, the poem shifts to describe what he sees below:
Quote: "he must have looked far down at the little fishing boats strung out like bunting on a green-blue translucent sea"
This vivid description marks a turning point in the pilot's mindset, as the beauty of the natural world begins to influence his decision.
Highlight: The use of free verse allows the speaker to convey a tone of nostalgia and contemplation, mirroring the pilot's internal struggle.
The poem employs various literary devices to enhance its impact:
- Similes: "like bunting" compares the fishing boats to festive decorations, creating a contrast between the bleak mission and the vibrant world below.
- Metaphors: "a huge flag waved first one way then the other in a figure of eight" represents the pilot's indecision and the infinity symbol, suggesting he feels trapped by destiny.
Example: The "dark shoals of fishes flashing silver as their bellies swivelled towards the sun" symbolizes the significance of nature compared to human conflicts.
The page concludes with the pilot's memories of his childhood, fishing with his brothers and grandfather, foreshadowing his eventual decision to turn back.
We thought you’d 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 – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — 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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m 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 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m 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 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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