Essay Database

In Cut Grass, Philip Larkin uses onomatopoeia, color and flower symbolism, and punctuation to show that death is inevitable, and is unaware of specific circumstances. By contrasting the cut grass with the typically vibrant, lively month of June, Larkin shows the harsh nature of death, and its disregard towards its surroundings, while simultaneously providing a sense of hope once death does arrive. In the first stanza, Larkin uses onomatopoeia to create a vivid image of …

…subordinate, youth. However "white hours," "and chestnut flowers" serve to depict a luxurious, pleasant atmosphere, which also describes death. Thus, Larkin shows a glimmer of hope for a future after death, and allows the reader relief and relaxation when approaching death. In using the symbolism of white and flowers, onomatopoeia, and relevant punctuation, Larkin is able to portray death as both eternal and hopeful, and to restore a sense of relief around death's depressing nature.