Read the poem entitled "The telephone" by Edward Field and below are the questions you must anwer after reading the poem.1. What was the poem all about?2. How does the speaker justify his joy of having a telephone?3. What are the benefits of having a telephone?4. What are the negative effects of having a telephone?5. What are your takeaways from the poem?
Answer (1)
Here are the answers to your questions about the poem "The Telephone" by Edward Field: 1. What was the poem all about? The poem is about the speaker's profound dependence on and love for the telephone. It explores how the telephone connects him to the world, alleviates his loneliness, and brings him joy. 2. How does the speaker justify his joy of having a telephone? The speaker justifies his joy by highlighting how the telephone brings him connection and a sense of belonging in a city that can feel isolating. He describes how it brings him "good news of friends" and makes him feel "in the world and wanted." He even goes so far as to say that his happiness "depends on an electric appliance." 3. What are the benefits of having a telephone? The poem suggests that the telephone offers several benefits: - Connection: It allows the speaker to connect with friends and loved ones, overcoming the barriers of distance and busy city life.- Sense of Belonging: It makes the speaker feel part of the world and wanted, combating loneliness and isolation.- Joy and Excitement: The ringing of the phone signals good news, love, or gossip, bringing a sense of excitement and joy.- Motivation: The telephone motivates the speaker to take care of himself, like combing his hair, and to engage with the world outside. 4. What are the negative effects of having a telephone? While the poem focuses on the positive aspects of the telephone, it subtly hints at some potential downsides: - Over-reliance: The speaker's dependence on the telephone is so strong that he feels like a "bear in a cave" without it, suggesting a possible unhealthy attachment.- Distraction: The poem suggests that the telephone can distract the speaker from other activities, like enjoying the sunshine, as he is "hungry again" for another call.- Potential for Gossip and Superficiality: The poem mentions "gossip" as a reason for calls, suggesting that the telephone can facilitate superficial interactions. 5. What are your takeaways from the poem? The poem offers a glimpse into the evolving relationship between people and technology. It highlights how technology can both connect and isolate us, and how it can bring joy and distraction. It also raises questions about the nature of communication and the importance of human connection in a world increasingly dominated by technology.
