Hide and Seek by Vernon Scannell

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Voice in 'Hide and Seek'

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The poem uses a child's voice, capturing the innocence and excitement of a game of hide and seek.

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Themes in 'Hide and Seek'

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The themes include childhood, innocence, abandonment and the transition to adulthood.

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Big Ideas in 'Hide and Seek'

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The poem explores the idea of growing up and the loss of innocence.

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Context of 'Hide and Seek'

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Written by Vernon Scannell, the poem reflects feelings of abandonment as Scannell abandoned the army and went on the run. He was also concerned with cruelty and injustice and most poems were about his son.

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Linguistic Techniques in 'Hide and Seek'

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Use of vivid imagery and personification, e.g., 'The bushes hold their breath.'

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Structural Features in 'Hide and Seek'

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The poem is structured to mimic the stages of the game, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

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Tone in 'Hide and Seek'

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The tone shifts from playful and innocent to reflective and somber.

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Effect on Reader of 'Hide and Seek'

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The poem evokes nostalgia and a sense of loss as the reader reflects on their own childhood.

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Use of Form in 'Hide and Seek'

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The poem uses free verse to reflect the unpredictability and excitement of the game. It is also one continuous stanza to represent the moment of waiting and the isolation of the boy.

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Imagery in 'Hide and Seek'

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The poem uses strong visual imagery to create a vivid picture of the game, such as 'They’ll never find you in this salty dark,'