Clocks
‘Clocks’ is a poem by Gillian Clarke about the passage of time and the changes that takes place
with it, especially in children. It is presumably for her grandson Cai, as it explores the wonders
of growing up from a unique and different perspective. Clarke has made it memorable with the
use of imagery, diction and other literary devices.
REPITITION
“ffwff-ffwffs”
The fact that he is unable to pronounce the word ‘flowers’ shows how young and innocent the
child is. The repetition of this phrase emphasizes how the child has got so much to learn. It also
subtly indicates that even when Clarke is trying to teach him how to tell the time by dandelions
or about sounds, the child is still contemplating about the word he recently had learnt.
IMAGERY
“blows me a field of gold”
This is very strong visual imagery as the child measures his breath, not paying attention to
Clarke who is trying to teach him how to tell time. It also represents how he does not pay much
attention to Clarke who is trying to teach him something.
“sand’s soft treachery underfoot”
This phrase employs tactile imagery as the child tries to understand how the water takes away
the sand from under his feet. Due to his innocence, something as harmless as sand is scaring
him as the whole world is very new to him.
DICTION
“translucent”
In this context, it relates to how the child is in a middle phase as he is full of uncertainty. It
reflects the ideas of growing up and how change is a very natural process.
“treachery”
It is interesting to note how he is scared of harmless sand, and is unaware of the real horrors of
the world. It emphasizes how sometimes, ignorance is bliss.
