The poem is a dramatic monologue in the form of an extended
metaphor, an unconventional symbol of love – an onion as a Valentine
gift. It is written partly in the present tense as if the event described is
unfolding as we read. The use of the future tense points to how the
relationship might develop. The poem acts as a warning to be aware of
both the pleasures and risks of love.
Valentine by Carol Ann Duffy
Gift wrapped!
Connotations of
romantic love but
also madness.
One word sentence suggests
speaker is in control.
Imagery suggests complex
nature of love and
relationships – there will be
pleasure, passion, intensity
but also pain. “tears” suggest
the emotional power wielded
by a lover.
Ambiguity.
2nd proffering of gift
followed by truthful
statement of
implications. “shrink”
implies diminution.
Imagery suggests
wedding ring and
recognition of the
loss of individuality
which is a part of
marriage. However,
this is a choice. In a
bad relationship, this
may become an
unbearable
constraint.
Minor sentence – as if in
middle of conservation.
Not a red rose or a satin heart.
I give you an onion.
It is a moon wrapped in brown paper.
It promises light
like the careful undressing of love.
Here.
It will blind you with tears
like a lover.
It will make your reflection
a wobbling photo of grief.
I am trying to be truthful.
Not a cute card or a kissogram.
I give you an onion.
Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips,
possessive and faithful
as we are,
for as long as we are.
Word choice implies merely a promise – no
guarantee. Light suggests hope and delight
in a pleasurable experience.
In the centre of the poem, a simple direct
sentence reflects poet’s wish to be honest
about her feelings and her understanding of
relationships. She rejects false sentimentality.
These points are central to her theme.
Connotations of jealousy and passion. Word
choice suggests conflict between the lovers but
also within them. Despite this there is a
commitment to fidelity – a risk the speaker is
prepared to take. Meantime.
Take it.
Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding-ring,
if you like.
Lethal.
Its scent will cling to your fingers,
cling to your knife.
Adjective has connotations of death.
Perhaps the death of individuality ,
intolerable in a bad relationship.
Minor sentence emphasises the risk.
“cling” hints at lasting implications
of marriage. The violent image of
the knife reminds us of slicing
through the onion just as language
can incisively reveal the truth but
also conveys threat – betrayal may
involve punishment.