Hide and Seek

Overview:

“Hide and Seek” is a poem by Vernon Scannell, a renowned British poet.
The poem intricately narrates a game of Hide and Seek, contrasted against the harsh realities of life.
The narrative follows a child hiding in a shed, waiting to be found, becoming an allegory for the anxieties experienced in life.

Themes:

The poet utilizes the corridors of childhood innocence to depict the looming turmoil of adulthood.
As the game progresses, the child’s initial thrill shifts to anxiety echoing the unpredictable anxieties of adult life.

The emotions of fear and isolation are skilfully woven into the narrative.
The gradual shift in the tone of the poem, from excitement to fearful anticipation, enhances the feeling of isolation.

Devices and Structure:

The poet employs simile effectively, such as in the phrase “chill as a dungeon”.
This amplifies the fearful connotations associated with the child’s hiding place, heightening the gravity of the situation.

Chunks of direct speech, like “Call out. Give yourself up,” add a sense of realism to the poem.
This creates a stark juxtaposition between the supposed simplicity of the game and the complexities of life.

The poem follows a continuous narrative structure, employing free verse.
The lack of rhythm or regular stanza form parallels the child’s escalating fear and uncertainty.

Interpretation:

“Hide and Seek” employs the metaphor of a simple childhood game to delve into the anxieties that pervade life.
The poem draws parallels between the fear of the unseen in the game and the apprehensions we face in reality.
It beautifully encapsulates the journey from the innocence and naiveté of childhood to the realisation of the harsh truths of life.
The poem prompts readers to reflect on the complexities of life and the inevitability of growing up, adding depth to the seemingly simple narrative.