The poem "Walking Away" by Cecil Day-Lewis explores themes of... Show more
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2 Jul 2025
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Walking Away Poem Analysis and Annotations PDF
Megan
@megan.07
Page 2: Structure and Analysis of "Walking Away"
Cecil Day-Lewis's "Walking Away" is structured in four stanzas of five lines each, following a regular rhyme scheme of ABACA. This consistent structure provides a framework for the poet's exploration of parental emotions and the process of letting go.
Highlight: The poem's structure, with its regular rhyme and stanza pattern, contrasts with the emotional turbulence described, perhaps suggesting the inevitability and naturalness of the separation process.
The poem opens with a precise temporal reference:
Quote: "It is eighteen years ago, almost to the day"
This line establishes a nostalgic tone and emphasizes the lasting impact of the memory on the speaker. The vivid imagery continues with descriptions of the setting, creating a clear picture of the day in question.
Day-Lewis employs several powerful metaphors and similes throughout the poem:
- "Like a satellite / Wrenched from its orbit" - This simile conveys the forceful nature of the separation and the child's new independence.
- "With the pathos of a half-fledged thing set free / Into a wilderness" - This metaphor emphasizes the child's vulnerability and unreadiness for independence.
- "Like a winged seed loosened from its parent stem" - This simile reinforces the natural aspect of separation while highlighting the parent's perspective.
Vocabulary: Pathos - a quality that evokes pity or sadness
The poem's language is carefully chosen to reinforce its themes:
- Words suggesting movement emphasize the ongoing nature of separation.
- The use of natural imagery connects the process of growing up to natural cycles.
Example: The phrase "hesitant figure" captures the child's uncertainty and fear, contrasting with the inevitability of their growing independence.
The final stanza provides a powerful conclusion, with Day-Lewis reflecting on the universal nature of this experience:
Quote: "I have had worse partings, but none that so / Gnaws at my mind still."
This admission underscores the profound impact of watching one's child take steps towards independence. The poem concludes with the idea that true love is demonstrated through the ability to let go, a bittersweet but necessary aspect of parenting.
Definition: Selfhood - the quality that constitutes one's individuality; the state of having an individual identity.
Through its structure, imagery, and thoughtful exploration of parental emotions, "Walking Away" offers a poignant reflection on the challenges and rewards of parenthood, resonating with readers long after the final line.
Page 1: Themes and Context of "Walking Away"
Cecil Day-Lewis's poem "Walking Away" delves into the complex emotions of parental love and the inevitable process of children growing independent. The poem's themes center around parental anxiety, family bonds, and the natural progression of a child's development.
Highlight: The poem's tones are described as anxious, authentic, and melancholy, reflecting the deep emotional impact of the subject matter.
Published in 1962, the poem draws from Day-Lewis's personal experiences, including his time as a boarding school student, which likely informed his understanding of separation anxiety. As a poet laureate for five years, Day-Lewis brought a refined sensibility to this deeply personal topic.
The poem's narrative structure is crucial to its impact:
- It employs a first-person perspective, with the poet reflecting on a specific memory from 18 years prior.
- The central image is of the poet's young son nervously walking away to his first football game.
- The poem concludes with an acceptance that this separation is a universal parental experience.
Quote: "A sunny day with leaves just turning" - This line metaphorically represents the change in the parent-child relationship.
Day-Lewis uses powerful metaphors and similes to illustrate the emotional journey:
- "The small, the scorching ordeals which fire one's irresolute clay" - This metaphor describes how life's challenges shape and strengthen individuals.
- "Like a satellite wrenched from its orbit" - This simile conveys the forceful nature of separation and the start of the child's independent journey.
Highlight: The poem's structure reinforces its themes, with words suggesting movement throughout, emphasizing the idea of parting and separation.
The poem culminates in a profound statement about the nature of love and independence:
Quote: "Selfhood begins with a walking away, and Love is proved in the letting go"
This declarative statement encapsulates the poem's central message: true parental love involves allowing children to discover themselves and gain independence, despite the difficulty this poses for the parent.
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
Walking Away Poem Analysis and Annotations PDF
Megan
@megan.07
The poem "Walking Away" by Cecil Day-Lewis explores themes of parental love, protection, and the bittersweet process of a child gaining independence. It reflects on a father's emotions as he watches his young son walk away to his first football... Show more
Page 2: Structure and Analysis of "Walking Away"
Cecil Day-Lewis's "Walking Away" is structured in four stanzas of five lines each, following a regular rhyme scheme of ABACA. This consistent structure provides a framework for the poet's exploration of parental emotions and the process of letting go.
Highlight: The poem's structure, with its regular rhyme and stanza pattern, contrasts with the emotional turbulence described, perhaps suggesting the inevitability and naturalness of the separation process.
The poem opens with a precise temporal reference:
Quote: "It is eighteen years ago, almost to the day"
This line establishes a nostalgic tone and emphasizes the lasting impact of the memory on the speaker. The vivid imagery continues with descriptions of the setting, creating a clear picture of the day in question.
Day-Lewis employs several powerful metaphors and similes throughout the poem:
- "Like a satellite / Wrenched from its orbit" - This simile conveys the forceful nature of the separation and the child's new independence.
- "With the pathos of a half-fledged thing set free / Into a wilderness" - This metaphor emphasizes the child's vulnerability and unreadiness for independence.
- "Like a winged seed loosened from its parent stem" - This simile reinforces the natural aspect of separation while highlighting the parent's perspective.
Vocabulary: Pathos - a quality that evokes pity or sadness
The poem's language is carefully chosen to reinforce its themes:
- Words suggesting movement emphasize the ongoing nature of separation.
- The use of natural imagery connects the process of growing up to natural cycles.
Example: The phrase "hesitant figure" captures the child's uncertainty and fear, contrasting with the inevitability of their growing independence.
The final stanza provides a powerful conclusion, with Day-Lewis reflecting on the universal nature of this experience:
Quote: "I have had worse partings, but none that so / Gnaws at my mind still."
This admission underscores the profound impact of watching one's child take steps towards independence. The poem concludes with the idea that true love is demonstrated through the ability to let go, a bittersweet but necessary aspect of parenting.
Definition: Selfhood - the quality that constitutes one's individuality; the state of having an individual identity.
Through its structure, imagery, and thoughtful exploration of parental emotions, "Walking Away" offers a poignant reflection on the challenges and rewards of parenthood, resonating with readers long after the final line.
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: Themes and Context of "Walking Away"
Cecil Day-Lewis's poem "Walking Away" delves into the complex emotions of parental love and the inevitable process of children growing independent. The poem's themes center around parental anxiety, family bonds, and the natural progression of a child's development.
Highlight: The poem's tones are described as anxious, authentic, and melancholy, reflecting the deep emotional impact of the subject matter.
Published in 1962, the poem draws from Day-Lewis's personal experiences, including his time as a boarding school student, which likely informed his understanding of separation anxiety. As a poet laureate for five years, Day-Lewis brought a refined sensibility to this deeply personal topic.
The poem's narrative structure is crucial to its impact:
- It employs a first-person perspective, with the poet reflecting on a specific memory from 18 years prior.
- The central image is of the poet's young son nervously walking away to his first football game.
- The poem concludes with an acceptance that this separation is a universal parental experience.
Quote: "A sunny day with leaves just turning" - This line metaphorically represents the change in the parent-child relationship.
Day-Lewis uses powerful metaphors and similes to illustrate the emotional journey:
- "The small, the scorching ordeals which fire one's irresolute clay" - This metaphor describes how life's challenges shape and strengthen individuals.
- "Like a satellite wrenched from its orbit" - This simile conveys the forceful nature of separation and the start of the child's independent journey.
Highlight: The poem's structure reinforces its themes, with words suggesting movement throughout, emphasizing the idea of parting and separation.
The poem culminates in a profound statement about the nature of love and independence:
Quote: "Selfhood begins with a walking away, and Love is proved in the letting go"
This declarative statement encapsulates the poem's central message: true parental love involves allowing children to discover themselves and gain independence, despite the difficulty this poses for the parent.
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