Eleanor Rigby – “The Beatles”

Question

Name, definition, and identification of the poetic device
An example of each of the three poetic devices from the song you are using (the lyrics that show that poetic device.)
A visual representation (hand-drawn picture/illustration) of your chosen poetic device.
Theme of the song and similarities/ How you connected the two themes
A YouTube lyrics link included (either on the presentation slide, or included in the drop box on Connexus with the assignment attachment

Answer 1

Analysis of "Eleanor Rigby" by The Beatles

Poetic Devices

1. Imagery

   • Definition: Imagery involves the use of descriptive language that appeals to the senses, helping the reader to visualize scenes, sounds, and feelings.
   • Example from Lyrics: “All the lonely people, where do they all come from? / All the lonely people, where do they all belong?”
   • Visual Representation: A drawing of a solitary figure sitting on a bench, surrounded by fog, symbolizing loneliness.

2. Personification

   • Definition: Personification gives human characteristics to non-human entities, allowing for deeper emotional connections and understanding.
   • Example from Lyrics: “Eleanor Rigby dies in the church and was buried along with her name.”
   • Visual Representation: A grave with the name "Eleanor Rigby" on a tombstone, suggesting a human element to death.

3. Repetition

   • Definition: Repetition involves the intentional use of the same word or phrase multiple times for emphasis, enhancing the overall meaning and emotional impact of a piece.
   • Example from Lyrics: “All the lonely people” is repeated throughout the song to emphasize the theme of isolation.
   • Visual Representation: The phrase "All the lonely people" repeatedly written in a circular pattern, reflecting the cyclical nature of loneliness.

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Theme of the Song

Theme: The primary theme of "Eleanor Rigby" is loneliness and the isolation people often feel in life despite being surrounded by others. The song explores how everyday life can be filled with unacknowledged suffering and emotional disconnection.

Connections: This theme connects to other works and common experiences surrounding loneliness. For example, in the poem "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" by T.S. Eliot, there is a similar exploration of isolation and the human condition. Both pieces highlight the struggle to find connection and meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.

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YouTube Lyrics Link

Here is a link to the lyrics video of "Eleanor Rigby" by The Beatles on YouTube: Eleanor Rigby Lyrics

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Visual Representation Example

Feel free to create a simple hand-drawn illustration that relates to any of the poetic devices mentioned above, such as a lonely figure in the fog to illustrate imagery or a grave with the name "Eleanor Rigby" to represent personification.

This analysis encompasses the requested elements related to the song "Eleanor Rigby" by The Beatles, addressing the selected poetic devices, themes, and connections made within the context of the song's message about isolation and loneliness.