Summary 2 page document that summarises and analyses Seamus Heaney's poem 'Out of the Bag'
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Course
Unit 3 - Poetry
Institution
PEARSON (PEARSON)
This document offers a summary of the meaning of the poem; its key themes; structural devices; language techniques and verse form. It is a key revision source and provides the foundation to a strong essay on this poem.
Exam Preparation: ‘Out of the Bag’
In Heaney’s poem, he explores the mythology surrounding origin through the character of
Doctor Kerlin from his childhood. He demonstrates his knowledge of ancient Greek beliefs
and presents ideas about the evolution of medicine over time.
Verse form Regular stanza form (all but one stanza is a tercet) although line lengths are varied-
Seemingly disparate and fragmented but ideas linked together through the
form. Connection between his different selves- still invested in the myth of
Doctor Kerlin even at the end.
Structural Separated into four distinct sections. There is a shift in tone and perspective from
devices sections 1 to 2, signalled by the use of academic discourse and terminology in the
second, yet both deal with ideas about medicine and ritual. By the final stanza,
Heaney returns to childhood and to the myth surrounding Doctor Kerlin
Changes in the speaker as a consequence of his age and education. Shows
the importance of that myth on his life, even into adulthood.
Much enjambment throughout-
Loose construction highlights the fluidity of his memory.
Definitive opening of poem- end-stopped line, in contrast to many other
lines. Continuation of myth demonstrated by the opening line.
Aspects of Depiction of the Doctor as god-like-
language ‘disappear’ and ‘reappear’- child’s perspective of the world- their belief and
innocence creates sense of unknown power; he seems magical. Links to
simile ‘like a hypnotist/ Unwinding us’- mesmerising for children.
‘all thanks/ Denied’- seems humble and omnibenevolent
Imagery of the doctor- ‘Doctor Kerlin at the steamed up glass’ with the
‘dot-faced men’ and ‘women with dot breasts’ that ‘soon began to run’-
creates life; sounds magical.
‘Hyperborean’- perfect existence glorified in this description.
Tactile imagery-
‘nosy, rosy, big, soft hands’- childlike descriptions and internal rhyme- close
detail. Seemingly maternal imagery. Connection of the hands with creation-
ie hands of God. Images of his hands could also highlight his role as an
intrusive one- invading life at home. Associated with creation.
The water ‘Not pumping hot…but soft/ Sud-luscious’- sensuous imagery.
Disturbing images of medicine-
Eye of childhood- limited perspective- frightening imagery to represent the
Doctor’s power over life and death: ‘chill of tiles, steel hooks…blood
dreeps’ ‘infant parts/ Strung neatly’.
Juxtaposition of childish interpretations to those in adulthood- experience
and knowledge.
Allusions to ancient Greece and to classical attitudes towards medical science-
Discussion of ‘Sanctuaries’, ‘shrines’, ‘sanatorium’ all part of healing
process in ancient civilisation.
Demonstrates knowledge of ancient beliefs and rituals surrounding
medicine.
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