Amanda - Short Answers

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1. What does Amanda imagine herself to be in the first stanza?

Amanda imagines herself as a mermaid drifting blissfully in a languid, emerald sea. This fantasy represents her desire for freedom and escape from the constant instructions and nagging she faces.

2. Why does Amanda envision herself as an orphan in the second stanza?

Amanda envisions herself as an orphan to experience a life without the constant commands and expectations imposed on her. She imagines roaming the streets freely, enjoying the silence and sweet freedom that come with being left alone.

3. What does Amanda’s reference to Rapunzel signify in the third stanza?

Amanda's reference to Rapunzel signifies her longing for a tranquil and rare life, free from external interference. She fantasises about living in a tower, where she has control over her own life and doesn’t have to deal with constant nagging.

4. What is the recurring theme in Amanda's fantasies throughout the poem?

The recurring theme in Amanda's fantasies is her longing for freedom and escape from the constant instructions and criticisms she faces. In her daydreams of being a mermaid, an orphan, and Rapunzel, she imagines a life without control and nagging, where she can live freely and independently.

5. How does the speaker’s tone towards Amanda change throughout the poem?

The speaker's tone towards Amanda remains consistently nagging and critical throughout the poem. The commands and criticisms do not soften, revealing the speaker’s continuous dissatisfaction with Amanda’s behaviour and appearance.

6. What do Amanda’s daydreams reveal about her inner world?

Amanda's daydreams reveal her rich inner world filled with a longing for peace, autonomy, and freedom. Her fantasies serve as an escape from the restrictive and critical environment she faces in reality, highlighting her need for space and independence.

7. Why does the speaker tell Amanda to stop sulking?

The speaker tells Amanda to stop sulking because her moodiness is perceived as a response to the constant nagging. The speaker is annoyed and dismissive of Amanda's feelings, believing that Amanda is being unreasonably moody and difficult.

8. What message does the poet convey through Amanda’s character?

The poet conveys the message that excessive control, criticism, and nagging can stifle a child’s spirit and creativity. Through Amanda’s character, the poet highlights the importance of giving children the freedom to be themselves and the negative impact of constant authoritarian behaviour on their mental and emotional well-being.