Text 4; 'Journey to the Interior' by Margaret Atwood
             This poem is written in free verse and presents a multi-dimensional exploration of the concept of journey. Some read it merely as a description of a physical journey that describes the early exploration of the Canadian interior, but to do so is to ignore the many complex shades of meaning that are also present. Atwood's layered approach allows her to explore and delve into hidden recesses of landscape that are physical and metaphysical in nature. Her mental wanderings take her on a quest to discover the meanings associated with identity and nationhood. This offers access and insight into the poet's mind and soul.
             The reader is guided into a private and unexplored world, evocatively described via symbol and imagery that is rich with unexpected meaning. Atwood provides the signposts for our 'journey' into her 'interior' by references to geographical and personal surroundings. Negative connotations imply that this inner terrain represents a heart of darkness', an inner sanctum of the soul. Atwood shows that within the darkness of her mind, there is a 'vacant wilderness' where words are 'pointless', as no one can hear you scream. Vulnerability increases, for like the physical Canadian landscape, the 'interior' of your mind becomes a multifarious world of 'danger' where many have trodden, 'but only some have returned safely'.
             A deceptively casual tone and pace is used to being the poem. The phrase 'There are similarities I notice' introduces the parallel levels of meaning that she will explore. The poem exists as an extended metaphor where the idea of journey becomes synonymous with self-reflection and examination. Links are forged between physical and metaphysical landscapes by allusions to natural landscapes such as hills, trees, prairies and cliffs which create a sens...