“The squat pen rests; as snug as a gun.” The term “squat” suggests to me that he sees the pen as quite clumsy and not fitting or co-operating properly, in his hand. However, he contradicts this image instantly by telling me that it “rests” in his hand. This reveals to me that although he is not altogether content about his poetry, he feels it is what he is most comfortable doing. The simile directly after re-inforces this idea. He uses “snug” to show it fits properly in his hand and almost like it is burrowing into his palm. The “gun” however, challenges this image and brings an element of danger and fear.
Heaney uses vivid and detailed imagery to convey to me his worries and fears. “Under my window, a clean rasping sound.” To me, this image suggests that he feels quite isolated and remote from the rest of his family. The word “clean” also indicates that Heaney believes farming is a good, honest occupation, but the word “rasping” may also imply that Heaney recognises that it is not what he wants to do.
“By God, the old man could handle a spade. Just like his old man” This stanza deeply provokes the feeling of guilt but also pride of his origins. The language is noticeably informal and conversational which presents the feeling that he is speaking directly to me, indulging me in his words. It seems he is almost ashamed at himself for not continuing the family tradition. Also it shows that he holds great admiration for his father and demonstrates the respect he has for his father and his work.
Heaney is constantly finding ways in which he compares himself to his forefathers. “Corked sloppily with paper.” This reference back to his childhood is one of the most powerful in the poem. The use of the word “sloppily” illustrates his inability to work on the farm. Also, this highlights his distaste for farmlife and the connection with paper gives the impression that he would much rather be writing poetry.
Heaney often shows the distaste he holds for farming. “The cold smell.” This image leaves me to think of a bitter and very much unwelcome smell. It also draws me into his feelings and allows me to experience his memories of life on the farm. At this time I feel sympathy for him and also hope that in later years I will not be left in the isolation of my family that he is experiencing.
“Between my fingers and my thumb. The squat pen rests. I’ll dig with it.” This is the last stanza and it shows me how he reconciles his decision to himself. He is suggesting that because of his inability to farm he will use poetry to make his family proud. Likewise he signals his understanding by expressing the difference between his father and him. “But I’ve no spade to follow men like them.”
Throughout the piece, Heaney successfully expresses his concerns and reconciles himself with his choice. The contradictory similes show me the choices running through his head. The skilled alliteration and choice of rhythm mimics the noises on the farm, which also highlights the emptiness and isolation. Without doubt, I feel that Heaney has produced a wonderful and thought provoking piece of work.