Ithaca: Structure & Language Techniques

Structure of “Ithaca”

Form of Dramatic Monologue: “Ithaca” is presented as a dramatic monologue, in the voice of “you”, the reader or listener. This form allows Duffy to explore complex emotions and thoughts, giving a deep insight into human experience.
Free Verse: The poem is written in free verse, which means that it doesn’t conform to a regular meter or rhyme. This could symbolise the seemingly unordered nature of life’s journey and also offers Duffy the freedom to place emphasis on particular lines or words.
Use of Section Breaks: The poem is divided into sections that each address different aspects of the journey to Ithaca - the start, the process, the arrival. This gives a clearer shape to the journey, a sequence of evolution and progression towards self-discovery.
Rhetorical Structure: The poem takes the form of an address, constantly referring to “you”, reinforcing the personal and reflective journey.

Language Techniques in “Ithaca”

Imagery: Duffy uses powerful visual imagery to effectively explore the experiences of journeying towards Ithaca. These images evoke different environments, situations and emotions linked to the journey.
Metaphorical Language: The entire poem can be seen as a metaphor for a wider life journey. ‘Ithaca’ symbolises an ultimate goal or destination, and the journey to reach it represents the challenges and experiences of life.
Conversational Language: Despite being a poem, “Ithaca” employs colloquial and conversational diction. This makes it more relatable and engaging for the reader.
Lexical Choices: The poem uses a multitude of words associated with travel and exploration such as ‘journey’, ‘maps’, ‘seas’. This reinforces the theme of life as a journey, and life’s experiences as explorations.

Through careful consideration of the structure and language techniques employed in “Ithaca”, we can effectively understand Duffy’s exploration of life as a journey and her elucidation of human experiences along the way. The poem is not just about arriving at a physical destination, but it is an exploration of self-discovery, understanding and personal growth.