“Last Supper: Stanza 2” Overview

Form and Structure

The second stanza of “Last Supper” is written in free verse, allowing for flexible expression of ideas and emotions.
The stanzas are divided using line breaks rather than punctuation, reflecting the natural dialogue captured within the poem.
Unconventional use of punctuation within sentences demonstrates the urgent, almost breathless, sequence of events.

Imagery

Lochhead employs vivid color imagery, particularly of reds and whites, to convey both the richness of the meal and the violence of the underlying narrative.
She uses symbolism to add depth to the narrative, such as a chicken carcass representing betrayal, and wine symbolising blood.

Language and Tone

Lochhead adopts a colloquial language style, further immersing the reader in the dynamic of the intimate dinner setting.
The tone is initially casual but slowly transforms to suspense and solemnity to reflect the impending betrayal.

Themes

The themes of betrayal and sacrifice form the backbone of this stanza, mirroring the biblical narrative of the Last Supper and Judas’s betrayal of Jesus.
The omnipresence of guilt, illustrated through the narrator’s internal struggle, is also a noteworthy theme in this stanza.

The key areas to focus on include the form and structure of the poem, the imagery Lochhead uses to bring her narrative to life, the language and tone that conveys the emotions underpinning the poem, and the critical themes presented throughout this stanza. Understanding these areas will give you a comprehensive understanding of Stanza 2 from “Last Supper”.