7. ‘Hide and Seek’ by Vernon Scannell
Bio of the Poet
- Vernon Scannell (1922–2007): British poet and war veteran.
- His work often explores childhood, isolation, and psychological struggle, shaped by his war experiences.
- ‘Hide and Seek’ is deceptively simple but has a dark undertone.
Detailed Summary
- The poem is a dramatic monologue told from the point of view of a child playing hide and seek.
- The speaker hides confidently, certain of his cleverness.
- He hears noises and assumes the others are still searching.
- Time passes—his excitement turns to doubt, then fear.
- When he finally comes out, he discovers that everyone has gone.
- The final twist reveals feelings of betrayal, loneliness, and abandonment.
Main Themes
- Isolation and Abandonment
- Childhood Games vs. Adult Realities
- False Confidence
- Loss of Innocence
Literary Analysis
- Form: Free verse; one long stanza builds tension.
- Tone: Starts playful and proud, ends with fear and confusion.
- Language:
- Direct address: “Call out. Call loud: I’m ready!”
- Sensory detail: cold walls, salty smell, creeping darkness.
- Direct address: “Call out. Call loud: I’m ready!”
- Symbolism: The game represents larger emotional truths—being left out, growing up, betrayal.
Main Message
- A seemingly simple game of hide and seek becomes a metaphor for the emotional journey of childhood.
- It warns about the pain of neglect and false expectations.
Expected Exam Questions
- How does Scannell build tension in ‘Hide and Seek’?
- Explore the theme of loneliness in the poem.
- How does the poet use childhood as a metaphor for deeper issues?
- Compare how isolation is presented in ‘Hide and Seek’ and one other poem.