In Edgar Guest's poem "A Boy and His Dad," the structure beginning with a fishing trip and culminating in a reflective memory underscores the bond between father and son. This framing device reveals how shared experiences shape their relationship and how memories endure over time.
One example is the imagery of the fishing trip itself. The father and son are engaged in a simple yet meaningful activity that represents a rite of passage and the transmission of wisdom. The act of fishing becomes a metaphor for the lessons learned during this time spent together. Through the shared quietness of the trip, there’s an implicit understanding that these moments are foundational to the boy's understanding of the world and his relationship with his father. The tranquil nature of the fishing trip mirrors the comfort and safety the son feels in his father's presence, reinforcing their bond.
Another example is the way that the poem transitions from the present activity of fishing to the boy's future reflections. By ending in memory, Guest emphasizes the lasting impact of these experiences. As the boy looks back, he realizes that these moments are not just about catching fish but about learning life's values: respect, patience, and love. This nostalgia invites readers to understand that the time spent together creates a legacy that the son will carry into adulthood. The father’s guidance during their fishing trip is likened to the life lessons he imparts—lessons that continue to shape the son long after the trip itself ends.
Overall, the structure of "A Boy and His Dad" effectively showcases the evolving relationship between father and son through shared experiences that are cherished and remembered, highlighting the profound impact of parental relationships on personal development.