Love Song for Alex, 1979

1. Of these, what can the reader infer about the length of the relationship as described by the speaker?

A) The relationship was short-lived but passionate and happy.

B) The relationship is long-lasting and will perhaps last forever.

C) The relationship is new to the speaker but feels timeless.

D) The relationship lasted until the children were born but then ended.

2. What do the poem’s sixth and seventh lines—“the honeyed kiss, the lips of wine and fire/fade blissfully into the distant years of yonder”—most strongly suggest?

A) that the speaker is no longer attracted to Alex

B) that the lust-filled early days of the relationship are a happy memory now

C) that the speaker wishes her lover’s kisses were still sweet and wine-scented

D) that all feelings of bliss have faded from the relationship

3. Of these, which one does the speaker seem to connect to her relationship with Alex?

A) discontent in the afterlife

B) early career successes and awards

C) past challenges and heartaches

D) all the joyous times of her life

4. What phrase in the poem suggests that the children of the relationship are quick-tempered like Alex? (short answer)

5. What will their shared memories do in the future, according to the speaker? (short answer)