11:00 Baldovan: Themes; Change

“11:00 Baldovan: Themes; Change” - Overview and Themes

• The section revolves around the transformation of children in the asylum.
• Key themes include adaptation to adversity, recognition of oppression and the evolution of resistance.

Language Analysis

• Phrases like “a vast sea-change” reflect the significant alterations occurring in the mindsets of the children.
• The skillful use of symbolism is seen as Paterson describes the children using fractured starling metaphors, which denote the broken innocence yet persistent resilience.

Tone and Mood

• Here, the tone changes from oppressed to defiant and rebellious, mirroring the children’s shifting perspective on their situation.
• The mood turns determined, reflecting a change from despair to quiet rebellion.

Imagery

• “Weirder fish of some appalling fathoms”, an image full of dark, mysterious undertones, effectively symbolises the depths of adversity that the children are adapting to.
• Sprouts of hope are cleverly depicted through imagery like “starling-polished by a thousand tongues”, indicating the patience, unity and resilience developed by the children.

By analysing “11:00 Baldovan: Themes; Change”, one can understand Paterson’s nuanced portrayal of the children’s transformation. His ability to depict the shift in tone, mood and imagery from hopeless despair to resilient rebellion highlights the theme of change prominent in this section of the poem.