Understanding the poem ‘Belfast Confetti’ by Ciaran Carson
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how Carson conveys the chaos of The Troubles in Northern Ireland.
Key learning points
- Carson lived in Belfast during the height of The Troubles.
- The Troubles was a 30-year conflict between Nationalists and Unionists.
- Belfast Confetti was the slang name given to homemade bombs.
- The poem discusses the impact of the The Troubles on people living in Belfast.
- Carson uses different punctuation symbols to explore the overwhelming emotions we associate with war.
Keywords
Exacerbated - made worse or more severe, intensifying existing problems or conflicts
Civil war - conflict within a country involving opposing groups, often leading to widespread violence and destruction
Paramilitary - armed group operating like military but not officially recognised by the government
The Troubles - period of conflict in Northern Ireland characterised by sectarian violence and political tensions
Sectarian - divisions or conflicts between religious or political groups, often marked by intolerance or hostility
Common misconception
The Troubles was a war that occurred between the armies of the UK and the Republic of Ireland.
The Troubles were fought in Northern Ireland between the unionists (who wanted NI to remain in the UK) and the nationalists (who wanted NI to join the ROI). Most of the fighting occurred between paramilitary groups.
Teacher tip
You might want to listen to the U2 song 'Bloody Bloody Sunday', written about the Troubles. Explore some of the lyrics and discuss what life must have been like living in NI during The Troubles.
Equipment
You need access to a copy of ‘Belfast Confetti’ by Ciaran Carson. This can be found in the Edexcel Poetry Anthology (we will be using the ‘Conflict’ cluster).
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
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