Question

Answer the following question in about 100-120 words.

Both poems ‘Dust of Snow’ and ‘Fire and Ice’ use contrasting elements of nature to convey their respective messages about life and human emotions but they do it differently. Examine these differences.

Answer 1

1. Dust of Snow's motif of snowfall and hemlock tree conveys lightness, purity, and peace. The imagery illustrates that even modest moments of nature's beauty can inspire the human spirit.
2. In contrast, Fire and Ice use imagery of devastation and intensity through fire and ice to portray the destructive potential of desire and hatred, emphasising the darkest side of human emotions and relationships.
3. In Dust of Snow, the speaker expresses thankfulness and respect for nature. Fire and Ice, on the other hand, inspires terror and reflection on the destructive nature of humanity.
4. Dust of Snow explores how little, unexpected experiences in nature can lead to positive personal change and regeneration. According to Fire and Ice, internal forces can influence both individual lives and the fate of humanity as a whole.

While Dust of Snow highlights the possibility for beauty and regeneration in even the smallest components of nature, Fire and Ice delve into the darker sides of human desire and hatred, emphasising the destructive forces that can alter human existence.