The poem "Walking Away" by Cecil Day-Lewis explores parental anxiety... Show more
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28 Jun 2025
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Walking Away Poem: Parental Anxiety & Independence for Kids
E
Elizabeth
@elizabethpm
Page 1: Introduction and Structure of "Walking Away"
The first page of the Walking Away poem PDF introduces the context and structure of Cecil Day-Lewis's poignant work. The poem focuses on a parent's insecurities and anxieties as they reflect on a complex moment from the past.
The structure of the poem is carefully crafted:
- The first two stanzas describe the narrator's memory
- The final two stanzas explore how the memory still affects the narrator
- The last two lines serve as a conclusion, acknowledging the pain but also the necessity of the event for the son's development
Highlight: The poem's structure mirrors the emotional journey of the narrator, moving from memory to reflection and finally to understanding.
The form of the poem contributes significantly to its impact:
- It uses a first-person narrator to emphasize the personal nature of the experience
- Enjambment and caesura are employed throughout, creating a rhythm that resembles natural speech
- A regular ABACA rhyme scheme reflects the steadiness of parental love
Example: The line "Almost to the day-" uses caesura to create a sense of hesitation, possibly indicating the fading of memory or the narrator's reluctance to revisit the moment.
The poem employs powerful imagery, particularly in its use of similes:
- The son is compared to a "Satellite wrenched from its orbit"
- This simile emphasizes the painful nature of separation and the sense that the son is drifting away from the father's influence
Quote: "like a Satellite wrenched from its orbit, / go drifting away"
This imagery effectively conveys the themes of independence in poetry GCSE, highlighting the emotional complexity of watching a child grow and become their own person.
Page 2: Religious Imagery and Thematic Development
The second page of the Walking Away poem analysis PDF delves deeper into the religious imagery and thematic development of the poem. Cecil Day-Lewis employs biblical allusions to emphasize the profound nature of a parent letting go of their child.
The poem draws a parallel between the narrator's experience and the biblical story of God and Jesus:
- The line "God alone could perfectly show" introduces this religious imagery
- It alludes to God allowing Jesus, his only Son, to come to earth and be crucified
- This comparison underscores the immense love and sacrifice involved in letting a child go
Definition: Religious imagery in poetry refers to the use of symbols, metaphors, or allusions related to religious beliefs or texts to convey deeper meaning or emotions.
The poem's rhythm changes in the latter part, reflecting the narrator's evolving understanding:
- The rhythm becomes more steady, mirroring the father's philosophical realization
- This shift emphasizes the narrator's acceptance of the necessity of separation for his son's growth
Highlight: The change in rhythm symbolizes the father's journey from emotional turmoil to a more balanced understanding of his son's need for independence.
A key theme emerges in the line "love is proven in the letting go":
- This powerful statement encapsulates the central message of the poem
- It suggests that true parental love involves allowing children to find their own identity, even if it means separation
Quote: "love is proven in the letting go"
This line is crucial in understanding the Walking Away poem themes, as it beautifully captures the essence of parental love and the bittersweet nature of watching a child grow independent.
Overall Summary of "Walking Away" by Cecil Day-Lewis
"Walking Away" is a deeply moving poem that explores the complex emotions of a father as he watches his son grow and become independent. The Walking Away poem summary reveals a narrative centered on a specific memory of the son's first football game, which becomes a metaphor for the broader theme of a child's journey towards independence.
Key aspects of the poem include:
- Use of vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the father's feelings
- Exploration of themes such as parental love, independence, and the passage of time
- A structure that mirrors the emotional journey of the narrator
- Religious allusions to emphasize the profound nature of letting go
- A conclusion that acknowledges the necessity and beauty of allowing children to grow independently
The Walking Away poem analysis shows how Day-Lewis masterfully captures the universal experience of parental anxiety and love, making it a powerful piece in the canon of poetry about family relationships and growing up.
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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.
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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
Walking Away Poem: Parental Anxiety & Independence for Kids
E
Elizabeth
@elizabethpm
The poem "Walking Away" by Cecil Day-Lewis explores parental anxiety in walking away poem themesand the emotional journey of a father watching his son grow independent. This poignant piece reflects on the bittersweet nature of letting go and the... Show more
Page 1: Introduction and Structure of "Walking Away"
The first page of the Walking Away poem PDF introduces the context and structure of Cecil Day-Lewis's poignant work. The poem focuses on a parent's insecurities and anxieties as they reflect on a complex moment from the past.
The structure of the poem is carefully crafted:
- The first two stanzas describe the narrator's memory
- The final two stanzas explore how the memory still affects the narrator
- The last two lines serve as a conclusion, acknowledging the pain but also the necessity of the event for the son's development
Highlight: The poem's structure mirrors the emotional journey of the narrator, moving from memory to reflection and finally to understanding.
The form of the poem contributes significantly to its impact:
- It uses a first-person narrator to emphasize the personal nature of the experience
- Enjambment and caesura are employed throughout, creating a rhythm that resembles natural speech
- A regular ABACA rhyme scheme reflects the steadiness of parental love
Example: The line "Almost to the day-" uses caesura to create a sense of hesitation, possibly indicating the fading of memory or the narrator's reluctance to revisit the moment.
The poem employs powerful imagery, particularly in its use of similes:
- The son is compared to a "Satellite wrenched from its orbit"
- This simile emphasizes the painful nature of separation and the sense that the son is drifting away from the father's influence
Quote: "like a Satellite wrenched from its orbit, / go drifting away"
This imagery effectively conveys the themes of independence in poetry GCSE, highlighting the emotional complexity of watching a child grow and become their own person.
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 2: Religious Imagery and Thematic Development
The second page of the Walking Away poem analysis PDF delves deeper into the religious imagery and thematic development of the poem. Cecil Day-Lewis employs biblical allusions to emphasize the profound nature of a parent letting go of their child.
The poem draws a parallel between the narrator's experience and the biblical story of God and Jesus:
- The line "God alone could perfectly show" introduces this religious imagery
- It alludes to God allowing Jesus, his only Son, to come to earth and be crucified
- This comparison underscores the immense love and sacrifice involved in letting a child go
Definition: Religious imagery in poetry refers to the use of symbols, metaphors, or allusions related to religious beliefs or texts to convey deeper meaning or emotions.
The poem's rhythm changes in the latter part, reflecting the narrator's evolving understanding:
- The rhythm becomes more steady, mirroring the father's philosophical realization
- This shift emphasizes the narrator's acceptance of the necessity of separation for his son's growth
Highlight: The change in rhythm symbolizes the father's journey from emotional turmoil to a more balanced understanding of his son's need for independence.
A key theme emerges in the line "love is proven in the letting go":
- This powerful statement encapsulates the central message of the poem
- It suggests that true parental love involves allowing children to find their own identity, even if it means separation
Quote: "love is proven in the letting go"
This line is crucial in understanding the Walking Away poem themes, as it beautifully captures the essence of parental love and the bittersweet nature of watching a child grow independent.
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
Overall Summary of "Walking Away" by Cecil Day-Lewis
"Walking Away" is a deeply moving poem that explores the complex emotions of a father as he watches his son grow and become independent. The Walking Away poem summary reveals a narrative centered on a specific memory of the son's first football game, which becomes a metaphor for the broader theme of a child's journey towards independence.
Key aspects of the poem include:
- Use of vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the father's feelings
- Exploration of themes such as parental love, independence, and the passage of time
- A structure that mirrors the emotional journey of the narrator
- Religious allusions to emphasize the profound nature of letting go
- A conclusion that acknowledges the necessity and beauty of allowing children to grow independently
The Walking Away poem analysis shows how Day-Lewis masterfully captures the universal experience of parental anxiety and love, making it a powerful piece in the canon of poetry about family relationships and growing up.
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