The Way My Mother Speaks: Form and Structure

Overview of “The Way My Mother Speaks”

“The Way My Mother Speaks” is a poignant and thoughtful poem by Carol Ann Duffy, featured in her collection, ‘Mean Time’. This collection explores the concept of time, love, and loss, frequently focusing on our relationship with the past.
In “The Way My Mother Speaks”, Duffy reflects on her Scottish roots and the influence of her mother. The speaker’s mother is presented as a vital part of their identity and approach towards life.
The poem is an exploration of identity, influence, and the deep connection between parent and child. The presence of the mother is felt through her words, guiding the speaker even though she is not physically present.

Form and Structure of “The Way My Mother Speaks”

The poem does not have a set rhythmic or rhyming pattern, reflecting the intimate and conversational tone of the poem.
The poem is arranged in three stanzas. The first and third stanzas consist of short repeated phrases, wherein the speaker mimics the mother’s speech. The second, longer stanza delves into the speaker’s thoughts and contemplations.
The phrase “I sigh as” is repeated in both the first and third stanzas which provides a cyclical structure to the poem, creating a strong sense of continuity and connection to the mother’s influence.
The use of enjambment across the stanzas reflects the constant, flowing influence of the speaker’s mother in their life.

Key Aspects of “The Way My Mother Speaks”

The repeated interjections of her mother’s phrases in the speaker’s narrative highlight the integral role her mother plays in her life.
The poem demonstrates the power of language and dialect in shaping our identities. The speaker’s use of Scottish dialect demonstrates how language can connect us to our roots and heritage.
“The Way My Mother Speaks” is a deeply personal and introspective poem. Through its exploration of a mother-daughter relationship, it highlights the profound impact of our upbringing and familial ties on our lives.

Analysis of Language and Imagery in “The Way My Mother Speaks”

Duffy uses soft, sensual language to delicately evoke the speaker’s connection to their mother. For example, the description of the speaker miming their mother’s words suggests a deep-rooted love and respect.
The use of metaphor in the phrase “the train moves too fast” suggests the swift passage of time, increasing the sense of longing and nostalgia in the poem.
The incorporation of dialect words, such as “Oh” and “eh”, serves as a sonic representation of the mother’s voice, carrying her presence within the speaker’s thoughts.

Through “The Way My Mother Speaks”, Duffy provides a heartfelt exploration of maternal bonds, heritage, and identity, offering ample scope for interpretation and reflection. This analysis helps underline the poem’s depth of emotion and the nuanced use of language and structure by Duffy.