Journal #17

1. What is the significance of the poem’s epigraph? How does it relate to Prufrock?
The epigraph is a stream of consciousness. It is telling people that it is not publicized, but rather his own thoughts. This relates to Prufrock because since he is not bold and outspoken the epigraphy allows you to enter into his mind and private thoughts. With the epigraph, it sets the tone that Prufrock’s poem is private and not for the public. He is full of self-doubt and would never have revealed this about himself.


2. Make a list of questions that Prufrock asks. Do you see a pattern/theme to these questions or are they random?
What is it,Do I dare, Disturb the universe, So how should I presume, And how should I begin, Shall I part my hair behind, Do I dare to eat a peach

Some of these questions are repeated more then once. This creates uncertainty and anxiety. He doesn’t really know what he wants with his life or what he is going to do. Prufrock is lost with his life and where he wants it to go. He questions everything because he is so unsure of what he should do and what people will think of him.

3. What do you think is Prufrock’s main flaw/problem?
His main flaw is his self- consciousness. He is very uncomfortable with himself and knows that he is the ‘background character’. Every little thing and decisions that seem unimportant are a big deal to him because he is not comfortbale in the world. He is afraid and not bold enough to go out and find love or meaning in the world.

4. Why do you think this is called a love song? In what way is it a love song?
He has a love for women, but he is too afraid to pursue love. Women will come and go, but he doesn’t have any relationships with them. Prufrock wants love but he cannot get it. Its very ironic to call it a love song because it is all about how he is not connected to someone. He is too scared too go after anyone and get into a relationship.