Who Is Being Protected in the Poem Silhouette?

The poem “Silhouette” by Carol Ann Duffy explores the nature of protection, through the eyes of a woman who is being sheltered by a man. The poem paints an intimate portrait of the relationship between the two characters and how they protect each other.

The woman in the poem is described as being “in his shadow,” and it is clear that she feels safe within its embrace. The man, on the other hand, is described as being “like stone,” suggesting a solid and unyielding strength that will protect her from harm.

The woman in the poem also talks about how she was once “a wild thing,” suggesting that before she found her protector she was vulnerable and exposed to danger. But now, with him by her side, she is shielded from any potential harm that may come her way. She even goes so far as to state that he has given her “wings” so that she can fly away if danger ever does come near.

The language used in this poem is powerful and evocative, emphasizing both the fragility of the woman’s position and the strength of her protector’s love for her. We also get a sense that even though their relationship has been forged through protection, there is still a strong bond between them based on mutual respect and understanding.

The theme of protection runs throughout this poem and we are able to understand its importance in both protecting those we love and ensuring our own safety. It is clear from this poem that both parties benefit from this relationship – while the man provides physical protection to keep her safe, it also allows them to grow closer together emotionally as well.

In conclusion, it is clear that both parties in this poem are being protected – while the man provides physical protection for his partner, they are also connected emotionally through their shared experience of safety and security provided by one another’s presence. This intimate bond demonstrates how important it is to provide protection for those we care about, so that they can feel secure in our presence and free from fear or harm.