Revelation

"Revelation" explores a moment of sudden understanding or realization, likely related to a personal relationship or self-discovery. The poem's title suggests an epiphany or profound insight.

Quote: "I remember once"

This opening line sets the stage for a recollection, implying that the poem will delve into a significant memory or realization from the speaker's past.

The poem appears to describe a moment of recognition or understanding about someone's true nature, possibly a romantic partner or close acquaintance.

Quote: "I had allways half known he existed"

This line suggests that the revelation was not entirely unexpected, but rather a confirmation of a long-held suspicion or intuition.

Highlight: The vivid imagery of "His mostrles gaped like wounds" (likely "nostrils") creates a striking and somewhat disturbing visual, possibly symbolizing the speaker's newfound perception of this person's flaws or true character.

The use of bodily imagery adds a visceral quality to the revelation, emphasizing its emotional impact on the speaker.

View of Scotland / Love Poem

This poem combines a reflection on Scottish culture and identity with personal memories and observations about love. The dual title suggests a intertwining of national and personal themes.

Quote: "my mother still giving it elbowgrease."

This line evokes a sense of hard work and domestic labor, possibly representing traditional Scottish values or the speaker's childhood memories.

The poem weaves together images of everyday life in Scotland with more abstract reflections on love and identity.

Quote: "Darling, it's thirty years since"

This line suggests a long-term relationship or a significant passage of time, adding depth to the poem's exploration of love and memory.

Highlight: The image of "looking into a mirror to see a lassie / wi as minny heids as days in the year" combines Scottish dialect with surreal imagery, possibly representing the complexity of self-perception or identity.

Lochhead's use of Scots dialect, such as "lassie" and "minny heids," adds authenticity and cultural specificity to the poem.

Quote: "in highrises and tenements"

This line grounds the poem in the urban landscape of Scotland, contrasting with more romantic or idealized views of the country.

The poem concludes with a reference to "Well pressed good dress," suggesting themes of presentation, respectability, or the contrast between public and private selves.