‘The Almond Tree’ by Jon Stallworthy describes a momentous ...



Dealing with EndingIntro‘The Almond Tree’ by Jon Stallworthy describes a momentous event in the poet’s life. In essence, the poem describes the thoughts, feelings and emotions surrounding the birth of a first born child. Sadly, in this case the poet’s original anticipation and excitement are shattered when he discovers that his son has been born with down-syndrome. Thereafter we witness the poet’s response and his evolving relationship with his son. The ending of the poem can be regarded as particularly effective as we have shared in the poet’s emotional journey and we are able to sympathise with him. We are therefore touched/happy that a satisfactory conclusion is reached for both father and baby.Firstly, the start of the poem allows us to share in the joy and anticipation felt by the speaker on the way to the hospital. In addition, the second stanza is important as it reveals the father’s wish for a boy. However, this sense of joy is soon shattered as the news that his son is disabled is revealed to the speaker. Equally, the speaker’s devastation is shown when…Furthermore, it is made clear that the poet feels that he will be unable to communicate with his son. Sum up – Relate to taskHere we are able to appreciate the contrast in emotions experienced by the speaker on his journey. Understanding this makes the ending all the more satisfying/effective as we are made aware that this devastating news has ultimately had a positive influence on the speaker.The ending of the poem is particularly effective as it shows that the man has gone through an almost religious experience in that he is facing the reality of life for the first time. Thus having shared in the poet’s emotional journey from joy to devastation, we find the ending satisfying as we see that what initially seems like a tragedy has had a positive impact upon the speaker. The final stanza of the poem is effective in summing up how the experience has changed the speaker:Here it is clear that the poet’s attitude towards his son has changed as he no longer sees his son as totally dependent upon him. This is clear in that he appreciates that he states that he will learn more from his son than his son will from him. The final lines make it clear that the speaker has accepted his circumstance and feels that his son has taught him about life; that without pain we cannot life. For me, it is the emotional overtones of acceptance and love that make this ending particularly satisfying. ................
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