The Womb Poem Analysis

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An important message that is conveyed in the poem 'The Womb' by Apirana Taylor is 'The Impact of Colonisation on the Land' This message is emphasised throughout the poem by using effective language features. These techniques include narrative point of view, imagery and contrast. A persona is used throughout the poem to talk directly to the reader and make them feel responsible. Imagery creates a powerful picture in the reader's mind making them realise the impact on the land. Finally, there is an admirable sense of contrast in this poem going from anger to vengeance. One of the most noticeable and interesting language features that are used in this poem is the narrative point of view. The poem is written in second-person, so Papatuanuku (god of the land) explains her perspective on NZ colonisation to the reader and blames them for the damage done to the land because of development …show more content…

It is portrayed in the form of metaphors, similes and word choice. The effect of these features creates a very clear or even slightly overwhelming picture in the reader’s mind. The audience develop an understanding as to how bad the situation really is. Furthermore, Taylor also relates a lot of his writing to his Maori and Pakeha heritage which adds a personal touch. The Maori culture have utmost respect for the nature and environment as it is very sacred to them. The message of destruction is not only being communicated by imagery, but also culturally. ‘Your ploughs like the fingernails of a women scarred my face’ is an example of effective word choice and a simile. Using the word ‘like’ refers to a simile which is a comparison of one thing to another. The sentence ‘scarred my face’ relates to the physical pain of the land. Being scarred is generally used when we are hurt and since Taylor is writing as a persona and has a Maori background, it is only right to approach the land as a real person, hence ‘scarred MY