Lecture Notes on The Gun by Vicky Fever

Introduction

• Poem: The Gun by Vicky Fever
• Included in: Edexcel AS/A level English literature curriculum
• Themes: Conflict, power, gender
• Trigger Warning: Violence

Summary

• Title: Deliberately provocative, associating with violence and danger
• Plot: A gun is brought into a house, leading to change and death
• Autobiographical Elements: Reflects Vicky Fever's own change in attitude towards guns

Structure

• Line Lengths: Varied to convey instability
• No Rhyme Scheme: Use of consonant rhymes adds discomfort

Analysis

Imagery and Symbolism

• Initial Image: Gun on kitchen table, sharp contrast with home comforts
• Enjambment: Used to create a jarring feel, reflecting sudden change
• Violence and Home: Gun's presence disrupts the harmony and coziness
• Gun as Predator: Irony of gun lying like dead when it is a tool for killing
• Surreal Imagery: Juxtaposition of gun and cheerful elements like green cloth

Themes

• Dominance and Gender: Gun seen as a phallic symbol, masculine dominance
• Desensitization to Violence: Speaker becomes desensitized, uses violence for pleasure
• Orange as Warning: String color used symbolically to warn
• Contrasting Imagery: Freshness vs. decay highlights destructive change

Broader Commentary

• Gender Dynamics: Exploration of masculine energy overpowering feminine
• Death and Rebirth: Conveys idea that from death can come new life
• King of Death: Reflects on power dynamics, masculine as dominant
• Social Roles: Commentary on status and roles in society

Conclusion

• Speaker's Admiration for Gun: Belief that it brings new life and energy

• Engagement: Encouraged viewers to share thoughts and comments
• Thank You: Acknowledged the audience and concluded the session