Continuum by Allen Curnow

300 Words2 Pages
In the poem Continuum by Allen Curnow, he tells us about his lack of inspiration. The theme of the poem revolves around poetic inspiration, and how he is unable to get inspiration. He uses a variety of stylistic devices to portray this. The title, “Continuum”, shows us that the problem he talks about, his lack of inspiration, is never ending and is continuing all the time. The first stanza signifies the first stage of poetic inspiration and also shows us Curnow’s unstable thoughts; “the roof falls behind”, as he is unable to compose poetry he is in a sense of rolling and falling all over the place. In the first line, the word “moon” is used as a metaphor, as a symbol for himself. As the moon is unable to shine on it’s own, as it depends on the sun, just like that Curnow depends on his writing to keep him going in life. The first stanza also tells the reader about the setting and time of the poem which is at night. The poem has no rhyme scheme, this tells us that the poet is finding it difficult to express his thoughts, and he cannot tap into the world of imagination. The last line of the first stanza; “I am talking about myself.” Also shows his frustration. In the next stanza, Curnow is seeking connection with nature to find poetic inspiration. The line, “It’s not possible to get off to sleep”, tells the reader that the poet is unable to sleep which shows that something is troubling him. He tries to convey that it’s as tough to get rid of his thoughts as it is to get rid off the planet. Curnow goes out “barefoot”, to rid himself of the human material and wants to connect with
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