First impressions and engaging with 'The Listeners' by Walter de la Mare | Exit Quiz | Oak National Academy

Match the keywords to their definition.

• supernatural

• magic and other mystical, ancient elements

• stanza

• a writer who uses verse to convey emotions

• poet

• an English poet, born in 1873

• poem

• writing that uses creative language to express thoughts

• Walter de la Mare

• a group of lines within a poem, usually separated by breaks

Answer explanation

Walter de la Mare's writing is often characterised by its lyricism, vivid imagery, and a keen sense of atmosphere. His unique style contributes to the enduring appeal of his works.

Which of the following is true of a poet?

• can control how a reader engages with their work

• guarantees all readers will understand their work in the same way

• writes and sometimes performs poetry

• draws inspiration from the world around them

• uses language to express themselves in a creative or artistic way

Answer explanation

The English countryside and its natural beauty had a profound impact on de la Mare's poetry. Walter had a fascination with the supernatural, and elements of mystery and otherworldliness can be found in many of his works.

True or False? Walter de la Mare wrote lots of poems with themes of the supernatural.

Answer explanation

'Peacock Pie' is a collection of poems for children, and many of its verses incorporate elements of fantasy, imagination, and the supernatural. The collection showcases de la Mare's talent for creating whimsical and atmospheric poetry.

Which of the following are texts written by Walter de la Mare?

• Out of the Deep

• The owl who was afraid of the dark

• The Surreal and Supernatural Stories

• Short Stories for Children

Answer explanation

'Short Stories for Children' contains stories that are both quirky and unpredictable, but also sometimes frightening. The text contains themes around states of mind and personal identity.

Match the following dates to the event that happened in Walter's life.

• 1935

• Awarded Order of Merit

• 1873

• Born in Charlton, Kent

• 1899

• Married Constance Elfrida Ingpen

• 1956

• Died in Twickenham, London

Answer explanation

Walter de la Mare's life was marked by his prolific writing career, contributions to both adult and children's literature, and recognition for his imaginative and emotional works.

Walter de la Mare lived from 1873 to 1956. Select the key historical events that he lived through.

• The First World War

• The Rise of Ancient Greek Civilisation

• The Second World War

• Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin land on the Moon

Answer explanation

While Walter de la Mare wrote during periods that included significant historical events like the First and Second World Wars, much of his work tends to explore themes of imagination, childhood, and the mysterious or supernatural.