Girl of the Red-Gold Hair: Theme; Place

Girl of the Red-Gold Hair: Theme; Place

“Girl of the Red-Gold Hair”: Theme; Place

Exploration of Themes

  • “Girl of the Red-Gold Hair” extensively uses the theme of unrequited love. This theme reflects MacLean’s romantic passion and admiration for the symbolic girl.
  • The poem also covers the tragic theme of war, both literally and metaphorically. The war between nations and the internal battle between love and loss are particularly prevalent.
  • The theme of place is intrinsic in the poem. MacLean delves into the depths of his Hebridean roots, using the magnificent Scottish landscapes as metaphors for his feelings.

Understanding of ‘Place’

  • The poet’s native Isle of Raasay is used symbolically throughout the poem. It is a place of beauty, reflecting his contentment and happiness but also a place of melancholy, representing his suffering.
  • MacLean uses specific place references, such as ‘Red Cuillin’ and ‘blue mist of Britain’, to depict his deep-rooted love and to echo his feelings of longing.
  • The ‘battlefield’ is portrayed not only as a physical place but a psychological one. The battlefield within the poet’s mind corresponds to his conflicting emotions.

Imagery and Symbolism

  • Nature imagery is woven into the experience of love in the poem. It highlights the purity of the poet’s love and the beauty of the girl.
  • The symbol of the red-gold hair of the girl signifies her uniqueness and the fire of MacLean’s passion.
  • The war references bring in symbolism of danger, risk, and sacrifice, contrasting the innocence and beauty of love.

Language and Tone

  • The elegant, dramatic language sets an intensely romantic yet sorrowful tone. Words like ‘bright’, ‘proud’, ‘burning’, characterise the profound passion and longing in the poem.
  • The repetition of geographical names enhances the dramatic tone of the poem and highlights the influence of place on the poet’s emotions.
  • The mention of war-related terms reflects a grave and sombre tone, underlining the emotional turmoil within the poet’s heart.

Critical Thinking Questions

  • What does the imagery of nature and the girl’s red-gold hair signify about the poet’s sense of love?
  • How does MacLean use geographical references to reflect his deep-rooted feelings towards the girl?
  • In what way does this poem utilise the theme of place and how does this connect to the overarching themes of love and war?
  • How does the language used in the poem resonate with the poet’s emotions? How does it contribute to the overall tone of the poem?