Over: Key Quotes

“Over” Key Quotes

Descriptive Image of the Departed Partner

Look at the quote, “Your dark head, bent over a book, slippered feet.” and see how it powerfully sketches a poignant image of the departed partner. There’s an intimacy in the small details that shows the depth of the speaker’s memories and the sense of loss.

Metaphor of Winter

The line, “All winter, stuck in time, snow falling.” uses the metaphor of winter and snow to represent the feelings of stasis and coldness post-separation.

Imagery of Light and Darkness

The phrase, “In the airless light, drumming at a loss.” illustrates the contrast between ‘airless light’ and ‘drumming at a loss’–hinting at the emptiness and despair in the wake of love’s departure.

Symbol of Empty House

Immerse in the line, “Homeless at home. The house is empty.” which utilises the symbol of an empty house to convey the speaker’s emotional isolation and loneliness post-breakup.

Sense of Being Stuck in Time

Ponder over the line, “Stuck in time, a dial tone, buzzing in the wire of the year.” Here, Duffy uses the ‘buzzing’ dial tone as a metaphor for the inescapable echoes of past relationships.

Linking “Over” to Duffy’s Other Poems

“Anne Hathaway”

Similar to “Over”, “Anne Hathaway” uses detailed, intimate imagery to depict love and loss. Consider the language Duffy uses to bring these emotions to life.

“Mean Time”

Both “Over” and “Mean Time” explore the concept of time and its role in relationships. Think about how Duffy reflects on lost time and opportunities in these two poems.

“The Map Woman”

Like “Over”, “The Map Woman” utilises the metaphor of spatial dynamics, showcasing Duffy’s unique approach to exploring human relationships and emotions.

While revising “Over” and its linking poems, reflect on Duffy’s distinctive use of language, imagery, and metaphor to navigate the terrain of love, loss, and longing. Recall the wider implications of the themes in her poetry, providing insight into the complexities of human relationships.