Valentine: Stanza One and Two

Overview of Stanza One and Two in “Valentine”

“Valentine” begins by presenting a unique interpretation of love through the metaphor of an onion.
The speaker rejects traditional symbols of love like the rose or satin heart, proposing the onion as an honest representation of the complexity of love.
In stanza two, the speaker details the properties of the onion which correspond to various aspects of love, symbolising the enduring, intense and at times dangerous nature of love.

Key Themes of Stanza One and Two in “Valentine”

Unconventional love: The use of the onion as a symbol defies the traditional clichés associated with love.
Honesty: An onion’s layers reflect the depth and complexity of love, offering a more honest symbol than the superficial sweetness of roses or satin hearts.
Conflict in love: The description of the onion’s scent as lethal hints at the potential for harm and conflict within love.

Analysis of Language and Imagery in Stanza One and Two of “Valentine”

The use of first person narration helps create a conversational, intimate tone, as if the speaker is addressing a lover directly.
The simile of the onion as a moon, “bright with fierce cling”, creates a vivid image associating the onion (and love) with intensity and passion.
The juxtaposition of words associated with romance such as “fierce” and “cling”, with the unconventional symbol of the onion, underline the unique representation of love presented by Duffy.
The phrase “it will blind you with tears like a lover” uses foreshadowing and develops the symbolism of the onion, demonstrating love’s ability to cause grief and pain.
Metaphors such as “promises light” reflect the potential joys and insights that come with love, while also hinting at its potential to reveal harsh truths.

Through these stanzas, Carol Ann Duffy presents a raw and unconventional image of love, extending beyond common romantic clichés to investigate love’s complexity, potential for pain, and profound depths.