Question

What impression do you form of the poetess and the poetess's mother after reading the poem A Photograph?

Answer 1

Hint: Shirley Toulson wrote the poetry "A Photograph." She recalls her mother and her recollections in this poem while looking at a childhood image of her mother when she was about twelve years old. She died twelve years ago, and she still can't articulate her anguish over her mother's death.

Complete answer:
The poet is depicted in the poem as a sensitive individual who is very fond of and connected to her mother. She adores her "sweet" face and observes how it changes as she grows older. She recalls every detail of her life, including her laughter when she looked at the photograph. Her death is difficult for her to take. She is rendered speechless by the pangs of parting.

The poetess' mother appears to be a physically fit woman with a lovely smile and a charming face. She has a cheerful demeanour and enjoys switching things up. She adores her two female cousins and joins them on a sea vacation where they dress up in cute outfits. She smiles as she poses with them for a photo. Her wonderful humour and nice temperament are evident in her giggles when she sees the gowns in the photo.

Note: It's been nearly twelve years since the poet's mother died, she says. The poet is overcome with grief, yet she is at a loss for words to convey her sorrow. The poet is completely absorbed in her dead mother's memories. The poet is silent due to the agonising quiet of the circumstance.