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      Comparing ideas about transience in unseen poetry

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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can compare ideas about transience in unseen poetry.

      Key learning points

      1. The transience of life is an idea that impacts us all.
      2. The idea of transience is explored across literature, including many different poems.
      3. Arguably, both Laskey and Robertson consider ideas of transience in their poems.
      4. Laskey's 'Nobody' could relate to how we need to take opportunities in life when we have the chance.
      5. Robertson's 'Donegal' may relate to how our relationships with others are always growing and changing.

      Keywords

      • Transience - the state or fact of lasting only for a short time

      • To muse - to think about something carefully and thoroughly

      • Temporary - lasting for only a limited period of time; not permanent

      • Optimistic - hopeful and confident about the future

      • Permanent - existing perpetually; everlasting

      Common misconception

      That the idea of life being temporary must always be a sad notion.

      The idea of life being temporary might inspire us to live life to the fullest.

      Teacher tip

      These are difficult concepts so it would be useful for pupils to share their ideas around transience as a whole class discussion to ensure understanding by all.

      Equipment

      You will need a copy of Michael Laskey’s ‘Nobody’ and Robin Robertson’s ‘Donegal’ which are available in the additional materials.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

      Supervision

      Adult supervision recommended

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

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