How does the poet attitude change in the poem Valentine by Carol Ann Duffy?
The poet searches for realism in this love poem. This is no sentimental doggerel one expects with Hallmark style Valentine poems and sickly kissograms. This is gritty, shocking and ultimately very truthful, though contrived. The metaphoric device of the onion allows the poet to extend the metaphor to include the sensuous side of her love as she suggests the careful undressing via the light of the moon. There is even the hint of naughtiness in the reference to being wrapped in brown paper. The onion is also used to explore the volatile nature of the passion associated with love. They are both blinded by the perfume of the onion and both helpless in the grip of passion. One’s senses are further aroused in this stanza. The love the poet has is strong, possessive, fierce and faithful to the end. Yes….this onion ( love ) has powers far above the usual methaphoric satin love heart or red rose. It will possess, disable, disarm and bind the lovers together in a real sense. Marriage is even o
