Language
Alliteration
Heaney’s use of alliterationWhen a series of words in a row - or close together - begin with the same sound. in the first stanza is suggestive of the man’s character.
The use of plosiveThe sound made by closing the lips and then releasing a burst of breath. For example, when saying words that begin with 't' or 'p'. sounds such as the repeated ‘t’ in “juts like a gantry’s crossbeam” and in the line “Cowling plated forehead and sledgehead jaw”, reinforce his tough and threatening demeanour.
Metaphor
Heaney uses the materials and tools associated with shipbuilding in the metaphorA word or phrase which is representative or symbolic of something else. “Cowling plated forehead and sledgehead jaw”, again highlighting his tough exterior.
The metaphor, "Speech is clamped in the lips’ vice" further reinforces this hard character. The line suggests that his physical appearance reflects his silent repressed personality.
Violent imagery
In the second stanzaA grouped set of lines within a poem. the imagery becomes more violent.
His hatred of all things Catholic is conveyed in the metaphor describing the head of his “sleek pint of porter” as “The only Roman collar he tolerates”.
‘Roman’ Catholic was a term often used pejorativelyIn a manner that shows criticism or disapproval. in reference to Catholics as a way of differentiate To recognise what makes someone or something different. them from other Christian groups.
Ship yard imagery
The docker’s uncompromisingSomeone who is determined not to change their opinions or ways. beliefs in his staunchFirm, strong or steadfast. Protestantism are shown in the third stanza, again using the imagery of the shipyard.
God is compared to “a foreman with certain definite views”. Heaney merges the idea of a strict boss at work with an unforgiving Old Testament God.
