1. Form and Structure:
* Free verse: Duffy often uses free verse, allowing her to break away from traditional poetic structures and create a more conversational and accessible tone. This can be seen in poems like "The World's Wife" and "The Woman's Work."
* Sonnets: Duffy has also written sonnets, like "The Love Poem," which showcase her mastery of form and her ability to blend traditional and contemporary styles.
* Monologue: Many of Duffy's poems are written in the form of a monologue, allowing a single speaker to explore a particular theme or perspective. This can be seen in poems like "Mrs. Midas" and "Standing Female Nude."
2. Language and Imagery:
* Metaphor and simile: Duffy is known for her powerful use of imagery and figurative language, creating vivid and memorable descriptions.
* Juxtaposition and contrast: She often juxtaposes opposing ideas and images to create tension and surprise.
* Everyday language: Duffy incorporates everyday language and colloquialisms, making her poetry relatable and accessible to a wider audience.
3. Themes and Ideas:
* Feminism and Gender: Many of Duffy's poems explore the complexities of women's experiences in a patriarchal society.
* Love and Relationships: Duffy writes about the different facets of love, including romantic love, familial love, and the love between friends.
* Social Justice and Inequality: She addresses issues of social justice, inequality, and the human condition.
4. Sound Devices:
* Alliteration and Assonance: Duffy uses sound devices to create a sense of rhythm and musicality in her poems.
* Repetition: She frequently uses repetition for emphasis and to create a sense of urgency.
5. Experimentation:
* Hybrid forms: Duffy is known for her experimentation with hybrid forms, blending different poetic traditions and techniques.
* Voice and Perspective: Duffy is a master of voice, using different speakers and perspectives to explore a variety of themes and ideas.
In conclusion, Carol Ann Duffy's writing is characterized by a combination of form, language, themes, and experimentation. Her work is both accessible and challenging, offering a powerful exploration of the human experience.