Poem 10- W.B. Yeats’ ‘For Anne Gregory’ Summary, Theme, Line-by-Line Explanation, Analysis, Extract Based Questions and Question Answers.

Summary “For Anne Gregory”:

‘For Anne Gregory’ by W.B. Yeats is a poem that addresses the theme of love and the superficial nature of attraction. The speaker expresses concern that Anne Gregory may be loved by men primarily for her external beauty, particularly her yellow hair, rather than for her true self. Anne suggests changing her hair colour to test whether men would still love her for who she is. 

The poem explores the conflict between superficial attraction and the desire for a more profound, genuine love that appreciates inner qualities. Also, the verse introduces a religious perspective, suggesting that only God can truly love someone for their essence rather than external features. To summarise, the poem reflects on the challenges of finding authentic love in a world where appearances often play a significant role in attraction.

Central Idea: For Anne Gregory:

The central idea of “For Anne Gregory” by William Butler Yeats is about the nature of love and how physical appearance influences it. The poem discusses how young men often fall in love with a woman’s outward beauty, symbolised by her “yellow hair,” rather than her true self. Anne Gregory suggests that changing her hair colour might make men love her for who she is, not just her looks. 

However, the poet counters this by saying that only God can love someone purely for their inner qualities without being swayed by physical appearance. The poem highlights the superficiality of human love and contrasts it with the divine ability to see and love a person’s true essence.

Justification of the Poem’s Title: 

The title “For Anne Gregory” is justified as it directly addresses the poem to a young woman named Anne Gregory. It signifies that the poem’s message and reflections are explicitly meant for her. The poet uses Anne Gregory to represent young women often admired for their physical beauty rather than inner qualities. Yeats personalises the theme by naming the poem after her, making it more relatable and intimate. 

The title emphasises that the poem’s insights about love, beauty, and genuine appreciation are directed towards Anne, encouraging her to understand the deeper aspects of love beyond mere physical attraction.

Explanation “For Anne Gregory”:

• “For Anne Gregory” by W.B. Yeats is a poem that explores the theme of love and the challenge of finding genuine affection in a world where superficial qualities often dominate attraction. 

• The poem is structured as a conversation or dialogue between the speaker and Anne Gregory. The speaker expresses concern that Anne’s physical beauty, specifically her “yellow hair,” might lead men to love her for appearances rather than her true self. In response, Anne proposes changing her hair colour to test if men would still love her for who she is. 

• The poem introduces a religious perspective, suggesting that only God can truly love someone for their authentic self. Throughout the poem, there’s a contemplation on the nature of love, focusing on the conflict between external beauty and inner qualities. 

• The symbolism of hair colour adds depth to the exploration of authenticity in relationships, highlighting the idea that altering external features may influence perceptions of love. 

• To conclude, ‘For Anne Gregory’ is a contemplative poem that addresses the superficiality of love based on physical attributes. It explores the idea that true love should appreciate the inner self and transcend the external features often dominating initial attractions. The dialogue format and the inclusion of a religious perspective add depth to the exploration of love and authenticity in relationships.

Analysis “For Anne Gregory”:

‘For Anne Gregory’ by W.B. Yeats is a poem that delves into the intricacy of love, self-perception, and societal expectations. The poem is characterised by a dialogue between the speaker and Anne Gregory, and it unfolds as a reflection on the superficial nature of attraction and the quest for authentic love.

• The poem begins with the speaker expressing concern that Anne’s external beauty, particularly her “yellow hair,” might be the sole basis for men’s attraction. This sets the stage for exploring the conflict between superficial infatuation and genuine, profound love.

• Anne suggests changing her hair colour as a symbolic experiment. This proposal reveals a desire to test whether altering external appearances could influence the perception of love. The notion of dyeing her hair becomes a metaphor for the malleability of societal expectations and the possibility of shaping one’s image to provoke different reactions.

• Introducing an old religious man adds a spiritual dimension to the poem. The assertion that only God can love someone for their true self emphasises that authentic love should transcend physical attributes. This perspective challenges conventional notions of attractiveness and points towards a deeper, more spiritual understanding of love.

• The poem touches on self-awareness and societal pressures, suggesting that individuals might feel compelled to conform to societal expectations to be loved. The dialogue format allows for a nuanced exploration of these themes, presenting different perspectives on love and its motivations.

• The symbolic use of hair colour as a measure of identity and the willingness to change it reflects the societal pressures to conform to external beauty standards. The poem raises questions about the role of appearance in shaping relationships and whether genuine love can exist independently of physical attributes.

In conclusion, ‘For Anne Gregory’ is a thought-provoking exploration of love, self-perception, and societal expectations. Through its dialogue format and symbolic elements, the poem encourages readers to reflect on the nature of authentic love and the complexities of human relationships.

The tone of ‘For Anne Gregory’ by W.B. Yeats is contemplative and reflective. The speaker engages in a thoughtful conversation with Anne Gregory about the nature of love and the potential superficiality of attraction. There is a sense of concern and caution in the speaker’s words as they express worries about Anne being loved solely for her external beauty, particularly her “yellow hair.”

The poem’s tone is introspective. It questions societal norms and expectations regarding love, beauty, and authenticity. It invites readers to reflect on the deeper aspects of human relationships and the nature of genuine affection.

‘For Anne Gregory’ by W.B. Yeats can be considered a love poem, although it explores love more complexly and introspectively. The poem delves into the nature of love, addressing concerns about the superficial aspects of attraction and the desire for authentic, meaningful connections. The speaker engages in a dialogue with Anne Gregory, expressing worries that individuals might be drawn to her external beauty, symbolised by her “yellow hair,” rather than appreciating her for her true self. Through this exploration, the poem reflects on the challenges of finding genuine love in a world that often values surface-level attributes.

• The poem consists of 18 lines in three stanzas, each with six lines (sexain or sestet).
• It employs an iambic tetrameter consistently.
• The rhyme scheme for each stanza is (ABCDEB), (FBGBEB), and (ABHDEB), respectively,
• While it doesn’t take the form of a traditional dialogue, it does convey a conversation or a series of thoughts as the speaker responds to the situation introduced in the first stanza.

The theme of ‘For Anne Gregory’ by W.B. Yeats revolves around the superficiality of love based on physical appearance and the contrast between earthly love and divine or spiritual love.

1. Superficial Nature of Love: The poem explores the idea that individuals are often attracted to external qualities, such as physical beauty, rather than appreciating the inner qualities of a person. The speaker suggests that a young man may be enamoured by Anne Gregory’s “yellow hair” and may not love her for who she is. The consideration of changing the hair color with dye is a metaphor for altering external attributes to test the sincerity of love.

2. Search for Authentic Love: The speaker is grappling with the desire for authentic, unconditional love. By contemplating changing physical features, the speaker questions whether someone could love the person inside rather than external appearances. This reflects a deeper longing for genuine connections that go beyond the superficial.

3. Spiritual Love: The poem introduces a religious element in the third stanza, suggesting that only God can love someone purely for who they are, independent of physical attributes. This adds a spiritual dimension to the theme, highlighting that true, selfless love may be unattainable in human relationships and is reserved for a divine realm.

4. Contrast Between Mortal and Divine Love: The distinction between the mortal (human) and divine (God’s) capacity for love highlights the limitations of earthly relationships. It raises questions about the nature of love and whether true, unconditional love can exist among humans or if it is a quality reserved for a higher, spiritual plane.

1. Yellow Hair:

Literal Meaning: Anne Gregory’s yellow hair is a physical attribute that initially captures the attention of young men.

Symbolic Meaning: Yellow hair symbolises external beauty and superficial attraction. It represents the surface-level qualities that might distract people from understanding and appreciating Anne Gregory’s true essence.

2. Hair-dye:

Literal Meaning: The speaker suggests using hair dye to change the colour of Anne’s hair to brown, black, or carrot.

Symbolic Meaning: The hair dye symbolises altering external appearances to fit societal expectations or norms. It implies a willingness to conform to external standards to be loved for one’s intrinsic qualities.

3. Ramparts:

Literal Meaning: The “honey-coloured Ramparts at your ear” describe Anne’s physical features.

Symbolic Meaning: The ramparts symbolise barriers or obstacles that prevent others from truly understanding and appreciating Anne’s inner self. It suggests that external beauty can be a fortress that keeps people from seeing beyond appearances.

4. Despair:

Literal Meaning: Anne’s external beauty makes young men despair.

Symbolic Meaning: Despair here symbolises the frustration or hopelessness that comes from being unable to see beyond physical attributes. It suggests the challenge of finding genuine connections amidst the distractions of external beauty.

Line-by–Line Explanation “For Anne Gregory”:

1. “Never shall a young man,” The speaker/poet/W.B. Yeats begins by declaring the unlikelihood that a young man will ever:

2. “Thrown into despair” Experience deep distress or sorrow.

3. “By those great honey-coloured” refers to Anne’s/woman’s hair, described as honey-coloured, indicating a warm and attractive quality.

4. “Ramparts at your ear,” Describing Anne’s/woman’s ear as if it were protected or surrounded by honey-coloured walls or defences.

5. “Love you for yourself alone“ Yeats emphasises that true love should be based on the person’s inner qualities rather than external attributes.

6. “And not your yellow hair.” Concluding the first stanza, the poet reiterates that genuine love should not be solely based on physical features, such as the woman’s yellow hair.

7. “But I can get a hair-dye” (The dialogue now shifts to Anne.) The speaker, Anne, suggests a solution to the potential problem of being loved only for external qualities.

8. “And set such colour there,” Indicating the ability to change the colour of the hair to something different.

9. “Brown, or black, or carrot,” Listing alternative hair colours that the speaker/Anne could adopt, highlighting the arbitrary nature of physical appearances.

10. “That young men in despair” She suggests that changing her hair colour might attract them into a state of hopelessness or desperation.

11. “May love me for myself alone“ However, Anne expresses the desire for love based on inner qualities rather than external changes.

12. “And not my yellow hair.” Repeating the sentiment from the first stanza emphasises Anne’s/speaker’s desire for genuine love regardless of physical appearance.

13. “I heard an old religious man“ Shifting the narrative to a different perspective, the speaker/poet/W.B. Yeats recalls hearing an elderly religious man.

14. “But yesternight declare.“ Recently declare or state.

15. “That he had found a text to prove.“ He (the religious man) claimed to have discovered a religious text supporting the idea.

16. “That only God, my dear,“ Suggesting that only God can truly love without being swayed by superficial attributes.

17. “Could love you for yourself alone.” This reinforces the idea that genuine love, free from the influence of external features, is a divine attribute.

18. “And not your yellow hair.” Reiterating that true love transcends physical appearances echoes the sentiments expressed earlier in the poem.

Literary Devices “For Anne Gregory”:

Question Answers “For Anne Gregory”:

Textbook Questions Answers:

Q1: What does the young man mean by “great honey-coloured /Ramparts at your ear?” Why does he say that young men are “thrown into despair” by them?

A1: In the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’ by W.B. Yeats, the lines “great honey-coloured / Ramparts at your ear” describe the physical attributes of Anne Gregory, particularly her hair, which is likened to the colour of honey. The term “ramparts” typically refers to protective walls or fortifications. In this context, the woman’s attractive and alluring qualities are a defence or barrier around her.

The phrase “thrown into despair” suggests that young men become deeply distressed or troubled when faced with the beauty or attractiveness of the woman’s features, specifically her honey-coloured hair. The speaker conveys that Anne Gregory’s external beauty profoundly impacts young men, possibly making them feel hopeless or despondent. This emphasises that external attractiveness can sometimes be overwhelming and may distract individuals from appreciating a person’s inner qualities.

To conclude, the poet explores the superficial nature of attraction and the challenges of finding genuine love beyond physical appearances. The young man’s despair is a reaction to the allure of the woman’s external beauty, and the speaker is expressing a desire for love that transcends such superficial considerations.

Q2: What colour is the young woman’s hair? What does she say she can change it to? Why would she want to do so? 

A2: In W.B. Yeats’s poem ‘For Anne Gregory,’ the young woman’s hair is described as “honey-coloured.” 

The young woman suggests that she can change the colour of her hair to brown, black, or carrot (orange).

The poem’s context implies why she wants to change her hair colour. The speaker addresses the idea that individuals might be attracted to external attributes, such as hair colour, rather than appreciating the person for who they are on the inside. By proposing the option of changing her hair colour, the speaker explores the notion that altering one’s physical appearance might attract a different kind of attention or love—not solely based on superficial qualities like the colour of her hair.

Q3: Objects have qualities which make them desirable to others. Can you think of some objects (a car, a phone, a dress…) and say what qualities make one object more desirable than another? Imagine you were trying to sell an object: what qualities would you emphasise?

A3: When thinking about desirable objects, several qualities make one more attractive than another. For example:

Car: A car is desirable if it is reliable, fuel-efficient, stylish, and has modern features like a good sound system and advanced safety features. If I were selling a car, I would emphasise its low mileage, fuel efficiency, modern technology, and safety features.

Phone: A phone is more desirable if it has a long battery life, a high-quality camera, a fast processor, and a sleek design. To sell a phone, I would highlight its camera quality, battery life, speed, and stylish appearance.

Dress: A dress is attractive if made from high-quality fabric, has a fashionable design, fits well, and is comfortable. If selling a dress, I would focus on the fabric’s quality, the design’s elegance, how well it fits, and its comfort.

I would make the object more appealing to potential buyers by emphasising these qualities.

Q4: What about people? Do we love others because we like their qualities, whether physical or mental? Or is it possible to love someone “for themselves alone”? Are some people ‘more lovable’ than others?

A4: (Subjective Answer)

(i) a parent or caregiver’s love for a newborn baby, for a mentally or physically challenged child, for a clever child or a prodigy.

• A parent’s love for a newborn baby or a child with challenges is usually unconditional. They love the baby not for any qualities but just for being their child. This shows that it is possible to love someone “for themselves alone.” A clever child or a prodigy might receive praise for their abilities, but the love from a parent is still based on the parent-child bond.

(ii) the public’s love for a film star, a sportsperson, a politician, or a social worker.

• The public often loves film stars, sportspeople, politicians, or social workers for their qualities and achievements. For example, a film star might be loved for their acting skills and charisma, a sportsperson for their talent and victories, and a social worker for their kindness and dedication. This love is usually based on admiration of their qualities rather than who they are.

(iii) your love for a friend, or brother or sister.

• Our love for friends or siblings can be a mix. We might appreciate their qualities, like kindness, humour, or support, but we also love them for who they are and our shared experiences. This shows that personal connections are critical.

(iv) your love for a pet, and the pet’s love for you.

• Love for a pet is often unconditional. We love pets for their companionship, loyalty, and the joy they bring us. Pets also show love in their way, not because of the qualities of our bond.

In conclusion, while we can love people for their qualities, it is possible to love someone “for themselves alone,” especially in close, personal relationships. Some people might seem more lovable because of their qualities, but true love often goes beyond that.

Or

Q5: You have perhaps concluded that people are not objects to be valued for their qualities or riches rather than for themselves. But elsewhere Yeats asks the question: How can we separate the dancer from the dance? Is it possible to separate ‘the person himself or herself’ from how the person looks, sounds, walks, and so on? Think of how you or a friend or member of your family has changed over the years. Has your relationship also changed? In what way?

A5: (Subjective Answer)

Thinking about Yeats’ question, “How can we separate the dancer from the dance?” it’s difficult to separate a person from their appearance and actions. A person’s looks, voice, and movements are part of who they are. For example, if someone close to me, like a friend or family member, changes over the years, my relationship with them might also change.

When I think about my own experience:

• Appearance: If my friend’s appearance changes, like they grow older or change their style, it might affect how I see them, but it doesn’t change who they are inside. I still value our shared experiences and their personality.

• Personality and behaviour: If my family members become more confident or start new hobbies, my relationship with them can become closer because we can share new interests and experiences.

• Life experiences: Over time, people go through different experiences, like jobs, travels, or family changes. These experiences shape them; sometimes, our relationship grows stronger as we support each other through changes.

In conclusion, while looks and actions are important, they are just one part of a person. These changes influence our relationships, but genuine connections often go deeper, based on shared experiences, emotions, and understanding.

Or

Extra Questions “For Anne Gregory”:

Short Answer Type Questions: 

Q1: What is the speaker’s concern about the impact of the young man’s emotions in the poem?

A1: The speaker is concerned that a young man, in despair, might not truly love the woman (Anne Gregory) for who she is but rather be captivated by the superficial quality of her yellow hair.

Q2: How does the speaker suggest addressing the issue of being loved solely for physical attributes?

A2: The speaker suggests that the woman could use hair dye to change the colour of her hair to brown, black, or carrot to make young men love her for herself and not just for her yellow hair.

Q3: What alternative perspective does the religious man introduce in the poem?

A3: The religious man suggests that only God can truly love Anne Gregory for herself alone and not for her physical attributes, such as her yellow hair.

Q4: What is the underlying theme of William Butler Yeats’s poem ‘For Anne Gregory’?

A4: The poem’s underlying theme revolves around the superficiality of love based on physical attributes and the speaker’s desire for genuine, unconditional love beyond external appearances. The poem explores the complexities of love and the difficulty of finding authentic connections in a world influenced by superficial standards.

Q5: How does the speaker propose distinguishing genuine love from superficial attraction in the poem?

A5: The speaker suggests that by altering external features, such as changing the colour of the hair, it may be possible to test whether a person loves Anne Gregory for herself alone, regardless of her physical appearance. This implies a desire to discern authentic, unconditional love from superficial infatuation.

Q6: What is the central idea of the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’? 

A6: The central idea of the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’ by William Butler Yeats revolves around love and the challenge of distinguishing genuine love from superficial attraction based on physical characteristics. The speaker expresses concern that individuals may be drawn to someone, in this case, Anne Gregory, not for their true self but for external features, such as their hair colour. 

The poem explores the complexness of love, addressing the superficiality that can influence romantic feelings and the speaker’s yearning for a deeper, more authentic connection. Introducing the religious man’s perspective adds a spiritual dimension, suggesting that only divine love, represented by God, can truly appreciate and love an individual for their intrinsic qualities rather than external attributes.

Long Answer Type Questions: 

Q1: How does the speaker in the poem suggest that young men perceive Anne Gregory’s attractiveness?

A1: The speaker suggests that young men perceive Anne Gregory’s attractiveness primarily through her physical appearance, particularly her “yellow hair.” This is evident when the speaker states, “Thrown into despair by those great honey-coloured ramparts at your ear.” The use of imagery, comparing Anne’s hair to honey-coloured ramparts, highlights the captivating effect of her yellow hair on young men. 

The speaker implies that Anne’s beauty, precisely her hair, initially attracts men to her. However, the poem questions whether this superficial attraction leads to genuine love for Anne herself or merely for her outward appearance. This portrayal suggests that young men may prioritise Anne’s physical attributes over her inner qualities regarding love.

Q2: What is Anne Gregory’s proposed solution to ensure that men love her for herself alone?

A2: Anne Gregory proposes dyeing her hair a different colour to ensure that men love her for herself alone rather than just for her yellow hair. She suggests, “But I can get a hair dye and set such colour there: brown, black, or carrot.” By altering her physical appearance, Anne hopes to shift the focus away from her yellow hair and onto her inner qualities. 

She believes that changing her hair colour to something less distinctive will encourage men to love her for who she truly is beyond her external attributes. However, this solution raises questions about love’s nature and whether it can be separated from physical attraction.

Q3: How does the religious man in the poem challenge Anne Gregory’s idea of changing her appearance to find true love?

A3: The religious man challenges Anne Gregory’s idea of changing her appearance to find true love by suggesting that only God can love her for herself alone, regardless of her external attributes. He declares, “That only God, my dear, Could love you for yourself alone and not your yellow hair.” By invoking the concept of divine love, the religious man implies that true love transcends physical appearance and is based solely on the intrinsic worth of the individual. 

His statement challenges Anne’s belief that changing her hair colour could lead to genuine love, emphasising the importance of inner qualities over external features. This challenges Anne to reconsider her approach to seeking love and prompts deeper reflection on the nature of genuine affection.

Q4: What is the central theme of “For Anne Gregory” by William Butler Yeats?

A4: William Butler Yeats’s central theme of “For Anne Gregory” revolves around the nature of love and the conflict between physical attraction and inner qualities. The poem explores that superficial characteristics like appearance often overshadow a person’s deeper essence regarding love. 

Yeats questions whether genuine love can exist when it is based solely on external beauty, symbolised by Anne Gregory’s yellow hair. Through Anne’s proposed solution of changing her appearance, Yeats highlights the complexities of love and the struggle to be loved for one’s true self rather than superficial attributes. Ultimately, the poem highlights the importance of inner qualities and authenticity in fostering meaningful connections and relationships.

Q5: How does Yeats use imagery to convey the poem’s idea of physical appearance versus inner qualities?

A5: Yeats employs vivid imagery to contrast physical appearance with inner qualities in “For Anne Gregory.” The comparison of Anne Gregory’s “yellow hair” to “great honey-coloured ramparts” evokes a striking visual image that symbolises her outward beauty. This imagery emphasises the allure of Anne’s physical attributes and their impact on others. In contrast, the religious man’s declaration that only God can love Anne for herself alone invokes a powerful image of divine love transcending earthly qualities. 

Anne’s suggestion of dyeing her hair different colours signifies her attempt to alter her appearance to elicit genuine affection based on inner qualities. Through these images, Yeats effectively portrays the tension between superficial attraction and deeper, intrinsic worth, inviting readers to contemplate the true nature of love.

Q6: In what ways does the poem explore the nature of love and superficiality?

A6: William Butler Yeats’s poem “For Anne Gregory” delves into the complexities of love and superficiality by examining how physical appearance influences romantic attraction. Yeats contrasts Anne Gregory’s external beauty, symbolised by her “yellow hair,” with the idea of being loved for one’s true self. Anne’s proposal to dye her hair different colours highlights the superficiality of romantic relationships based solely on physical attributes. 

The religious man’s assertion that only God can love Anne for herself alone highlights the depth of genuine affection beyond superficial qualities. Through these elements, the poem explores the tension between superficial attraction and the deeper, more meaningful connections based on inner qualities, prompting reflection on the nature of love and authenticity in relationships.

Q7: How does the poem’s title relate to its content and message?

A7: The poem’s title, “For Anne Gregory,” directly connects to its content and message by signalling that it is explicitly addressed to Anne Gregory and revolves around her experiences. By naming the poem after Anne, Yeats personalises the exploration of love and superficiality, making it more intimate and relatable. 

The title emphasises Anne’s central role in the poem and suggests that its insights and reflections are directed towards her. Furthermore, it sets the stage for examining Anne’s struggle with being loved for her true self rather than superficial qualities like her yellow hair. Thus, the title is a thematic anchor, highlighting the poem’s focus on Anne’s journey and the broader themes of love and authenticity.

Q8: What role does Anne Gregory play in the poem, and how does her character influence its meaning?

A8: Anne Gregory serves as the focal point of the poem, driving its exploration of love and superficiality. Her character embodies the struggle between being valued for external beauty versus inner qualities. Anne’s proposal to dye her hair different colours reflects her desire to be loved for who she truly is beyond her physical appearance. 

This desire emphasises the poem’s central theme of authenticity in relationships. Anne’s interactions with the speaker and the religious man also provide insights into societal perceptions of love and beauty. Through Anne’s character, the poem prompts reflection on the complexities of romantic attraction and the importance of genuine connections based on inner qualities rather than superficial attributes.

Q9: How does the poem challenge societal norms regarding beauty and love?

A9: The poem challenges societal norms regarding beauty and love by questioning the shallow nature of romantic attraction based solely on physical appearance. Through Anne Gregory’s struggle to be loved for her true self rather than her “yellow hair,” the poem challenges the conventional idea that external beauty is the primary criterion for love. 

The religious man’s assertion that only divine love can transcend physical attributes challenges societal beliefs about the nature of genuine affection. By highlighting the superficiality of romantic relationships driven by appearance, the poem prompts readers to reconsider societal norms regarding beauty and love, encouraging them to prioritise inner qualities and authenticity in their relationships instead.

Q10: What message does the poem convey about the importance of inner qualities versus external appearance in relationships?

A10: The poem conveys that inner qualities hold greater significance than external appearance in relationships. Through Anne Gregory’s struggle to be loved for her true self rather than her “yellow hair,” the poem highlights the importance of authenticity and genuine connection. The proposal to dye her hair different colours reflects the societal pressure to conform to superficial beauty standards yet ultimately highlights the emptiness of such relationships. 

The religious man’s assertion that only divine love can transcend physical attributes emphasises the depth of genuine affection based on inner qualities. Thus, the poem urges readers to prioritise inner virtues like kindness, empathy, and sincerity over superficial attributes, emphasising that true love stems from a deep understanding and appreciation of one’s inner essence.

Extract 1 

Q1: What does the speaker predict will happen to a young man in despair?

A1: The speaker predicts that a young man in despair will not love Anne for her true self alone but will be captivated by the attractiveness of her yellow hair.

Q2: How does the speaker metaphorically describe the physical feature that might attract the young man’s attention?

A2: The speaker metaphorically describes the attractive physical feature as “those great honey-coloured Ramparts at your ear,” referring to the yellow hair near the ear.

Q3: What does the speaker imply about the challenge of receiving genuine love based on the mentioned physical feature?

A3: The speaker implies that the challenge lies in ensuring that a young man loves the subject for her intrinsic qualities rather than being swayed by the superficial appeal of her yellow hair, especially when he is in a state of despair.

Q4: What quality of the young man is suggested by the phrase “Thrown into despair”?

A4: The phrase “Thrown into despair” suggests that the young man is experiencing intense negative emotions or hopelessness, potentially making him vulnerable to being influenced by external appearances rather than genuine connections.

Q5: What is the speaker’s primary concern regarding Anne’s attractiveness?

A5: The speaker’s primary concern is that Anne may be loved by a young man not for her true self but for her yellow hair’s external and physical qualities. The speaker emphasises the importance of being valued for one’s inherent qualities rather than superficial attributes.

Extract 2 

Q1: What solution does the speaker propose to address the issue raised in the first part of the poem?

A2: The speaker proposes using hair dye to change the colour of their hair to brown, black, or carrot to potentially attract love from young men based on their true selves rather than yellow hair.

Q2: What is the purpose of the speaker suggesting different hair colours?

A2: The speaker suggests different hair colours emphasise the idea that altering the external appearance can be a way to test whether a person loves them for their intrinsic qualities and not just for the specific colour of their hair.

Q3: What emotion or state of mind does the phrase “young men in despair” convey in this context?

A3: The phrase “young men in despair” suggests that the speaker believes individuals in a state of emotional distress or desperation might be more prone to superficial attractions, and altering the hair colour could be a way to test the authenticity of their love.

Q4: How does the speaker intend to ensure young men love them for their true selves?

A4: The speaker intends to use hair dye to change the colour of their hair, aiming to create a scenario where young men, even in a state of despair, would love them for their intrinsic qualities rather than being fixated on the yellow hair.

Q5: What does the speaker prioritise in seeking love, as indicated by the phrase “love me for myself alone”?

A5: The speaker prioritises being loved for their true self, emphasising the desire for a genuine and unconditional connection beyond physical attributes like hair colour.

Extract 3: 

Q1: Who is the speaker referring to as the source of the perspective introduced in this part of the poem?

A1: The speaker refers to an old religious man as the source of the perspective introduced in this part of the poem.

Q2: What claim does the religious man make about the nature of love, as stated in the poem?

A2: The religious man claims to have found a text that proves that only God can love Anne for herself alone and not for her yellow hair.

Q3: How does introducing the religious perspective add depth to the theme of love in the poem?

A3: Introducing the religious perspective adds depth by suggesting a divine and unconditional form of love. It contrasts human love, implying that only a higher, spiritual love (represented by God) can appreciate and love someone for their intrinsic qualities rather than external features like yellow hair.

Q4: What does the phrase “found a text to prove” imply about the religious man’s perspective?

A4: “Found a text to prove” implies that the religious man has a basis in religious scripture or teachings to support his belief that only God can offer a pure and unconditional love that transcends physical attributes.

Q5: How does the religious man’s perspective contribute to the poem’s overall message?

A5: The religious man’s perspective contributes to the overall message by reinforcing that true and unconditional love, free from superficial considerations like hair colour, is a divine quality that only God can embody. It emphasises the difficulty of finding such pure love in human relationships.