Understanding the poem 'Climbing My Grandfather' by Andrew Waterhouse
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how Waterhouse presents the multifaceted experience of reflecting upon memories of a loved one.
Key learning points
- The speaker of the poem is reminiscing about a childhood memory of climbing their grandfather’s body.
- The speaker initially feels safe and secure when reminiscing about his grandfather.
- The climb, and act of remembering, becomes increasingly difficult, risky and even dangerous.
- The grandfather is presented as an ambiguous figure, both comforting yet also mysterious.
- Waterhouse often wrote about the natural world and family relationships.
Keywords
Reminiscing - reflecting on past experiences with fondness
Memories - recollections of the past that shape our history and identity
Ambiguous - something that is open to interpretation because it could have multiple meanings
Multifaceted - having various aspects or layers
Reassuring - offering comfort, support or confidence to alleviate concerns
Common misconception
The speaker is actually climbing a mountain.
The speaker compares the experience of climbing up his Grandfather's body as a child to climbing up a mountain.
Teacher tip
In this lesson, you may wish to read the text in small groups before reading as a class to enable pupils to discuss their initial views on the poem.
Equipment
You will need access to the poem 'Climbing My Grandfather' by Andrew Waterhouse. This can be found in the AQA Love and Relationships Poetry Anthology.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
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