Speechless I: Structure & Language Techniques

The structure of “Speechless I” is rather free, lacking conventional stanzas or a fixed rhyme scheme, mirroring the fluid, non-verbal communication between the mother and son.
Despite this spectrum of freedom, the layout of the poem is not entirely haphazard - the poem progresses in a narrative manner, moving from one scene to the next.
The use of enjambment throughout the poem gives a sense of continuity and interconnectedness, reflecting the inextricable bond between the mother and son, even in silence.

The poem utilises imagery to create a vivid portrayal of the domestic setting and the characters’ actions, enhancing our understanding of their silent interaction.
Metaphorical language is used sparingly yet effectively. The silent ambiance created by the creaking boards and humming mother becomes a ‘symphony of quiet’, enhancing our appreciation of silence in the poem.
Assonance and consonance are subtly used to create a soft, harmonious sound, emulating the tranquil atmosphere within the mother and son’s world.
The phone rings out ‘like a bell’ in the silent home, an example of simile and a stark interruption to their peaceful co-existence, emphasizing the sanctity of their shared silence.
The poem exhibits sparse use of dialogue. This stylistic choice is a testament to the potency of their non-verbal language, as a silence filled with understanding.

The theme of silence is explored throughout “Speechless I”. Even though the characters do not use speech, a deeper form of communication occurs within their silence.
The recurring focus on ambient sounds within the environment (‘creaking floorboards’, ‘mother’s humming’, ‘ringing phone’) proves that communication in the text operates beyond traditional spoken language.
The act of reading is another non-verbal form of communication depicted in the poem. The mother’s absorption in her book further underlines the significance of non-spoken language.
Throughout the poem, language techniques are effectively used to enhance the reader’s perception of silence as a form of communication and deepen the understanding of the complex relationship between the characters.