Essay Questions

Why does the titular old man in "An Old Man" fall asleep at the end of the poem?

In this poem, the main character (the old man) reminiscences about his youth. In his old age, the narrator has come to realize that he did not value his youth at all, but rather wasted it on foolish desires and whims. His heart grows heavy as he thinks of all that he is no longer able to do, but never appreciated when he could. The narrator feels cheated by life and by those around him, who convinced him that he would always have more time. Now that he is nearing the conclusion of his life, however, the man realizes that time is not limitless. He wishes he had used the time of his youth more wisely and with purpose. All of these thoughts weigh heavy on his heart and mind and, as such, the energy is physically drained from his body. Given his old age, he rests his head on the table, exhausted by his reminiscing.

Why does the narrator of "The Windows" conclude that it may be better if he never finds the windows?

The narrator of this poem is clearly an elderly individual. Likely an extension of author C.P. Cavafy, himself, the narrator is confined in a small space. He cannot seem to find the windows and, though he desperately wishes he could open a window to let the light and fresh air flood his dwelling space, he realizes that to do so would perhaps be immensely cruel and disheartening. If he were to open a window, the old man would witness all that he is missing. He would smell the fresh air, but never again be able to set foot in the soft grass. He would be able to see the wind and trees, but never touch them or immerse himself in their beauty. As such, the narrator concludes that it would perhaps be better for him to never find a window and to remain trapped from the world that he is quickly forgetting.

Why does the narrator of "For The Shop" chose the secret the jewels and rubies away and keep them for himself?

The narrator of this poem is a shopkeeper that gets in a shipment of brilliant rubies, emeralds, and pearls. Though he could undoubtedly make a great deal of money off these precious gems, the narrator chooses to wrap them in silk and hide them away from the customers. It is likely that the man did this because he finds the gems immensely beautiful; he likely believes that no one could ever appreciate nor admire them as well as he could. Therefore, the narrator appears to be operating under the assumption that the gems will be more valued and appreciated under his care than in the care of someone else.