Theory question 111
Non-African PoetryLiterature 2, Section D: Non-African Poetry
Describe aspects of the Airman's character as revealed in the poem, 'An Irish Airman Foresees His Death'.
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Model answer
Poem by W. B. Yeats; an Irish pilot in World War I.
Fatalistic: he knows he will meet his fate in the clouds.
Not driven by hate or love of country: 'Those that I fight I do not hate, those that I guard I do not love'.
Detached from politics; his countrymen (Kiltartan's poor) will be no better or worse off.
Joined for 'a lonely impulse of delight', thrill and adventure, not duty or law.
Reflective, balancing past and future as 'waste of breath'; calm and brave in facing death.
Explanation
Name each trait and support it from the poem.