personification effectively conveys the grip the frost has over the soil: it is like a

clenched fist which is slowly opening.

• The frost has produced an image of the beauty of a spring morning. However, the

beauty of 'the real transformation' is in progress 'deep below', not above the

surface. The advent of spring is already underway, even though it is still winter.

Once spring arrives, it will result in a ‘permanent’ transformation of the landscape.

• Initially, the speaker's tone is one of admiration and amazement because the scene

he views is so surprising. However, his tone might be disapproving when he

describes the temporary nature of the 'bridal gear' and the frost as mocking people

with the illusion of spring's arrival. He condescendingly refers to the 'filigree' and

'flounce' of the scene.

• Finally, the speaker's tone reveals his awe of and respect for the power of nature

and spring in the last three lines of the poem.

[A cogent 'Invalid' response is unlikely. However, treat all responses on their merits.]

[Accept valid alternative responses.] [10]

18 Grade 12 Literature Setwork English Home Language

English Home Language/P2 8 DBE/Feb.–Mar. 2018

NSC

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QUESTION 3: POETRY – CONTEXTUAL QUESTION

Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow.

A HARD FROST – Cecil Day Lewis