Oysters: Key Quotes

“Oysters”: Key Quotes

“My tongue was a filling estuary,”: In this introductory phrase, estuary symbolises the arrival of new ideas and experiences, depicting a sensual, appetitive awakening. This notion is heightened by the dual role of the tongue as an organ for tasting as well as for articulation of thought.
“My palate hung with starlight:”: The starlight represents the exquisite, delicate taste of the oysters. It also introduces an element of ethereal beauty to the poem, suggesting a sense of transcendence in the act of eating oysters.

“I ate the day”: Subtle use of personification. This may suggest an attempt to truly savour the experience, to seize the day, or it can denote overindulgence.
“The peppered” and “with a shell”: The description of oysters emphasises on their richness and luxe. It may hint at Heaney’s perspective on privilege and consumption - a recurring theme drew later in the poem.

“And pliable presents its co-joined shell-jaws”: Ancient connotations of oysters bring in a sense of timelessness.
“I split, I savour, I compass”: Repetition of “I” depicts the poet’s engagement with consumption in present and hints at his personal guilt or his struggle as a part of the incessant consumerist culture.

“We had driven to that coast”: This indicates a deliberate choice, a sense of purpose. It implies both a physical journey and a metaphoric one through art and poetry. Drawing from the themes of consumerism and privilege, it can hint at Heaney’s exploration of his role as a poet.
“I walked dry shod in mist”: The concluding line could indicate Heaney coming out of his reflection and reverie, returning back to reality but not completely, as he walks enveloped in mist – a symbol of obfuscation or perhaps his unsettled thoughts. It serves as a powerful ending to the poem, inciting introspection.