Discuss the portrayal of bats in the poem Bats ... - SS2 Literature Introduction to Non-African poetry "bats" by David Herbert Lawrence Question

  In "Bats" by David Herbert Lawrence, the poet challenges common perceptions of bats by presenting them in a different light. Rather than portraying them as menacing creatures associated with darkness, the poem depicts bats as mysterious and even graceful beings. The poet describes their flight as a "sudden sharp contortion" and compares it to a dance, emphasizing their elegance.

   The deeper message drawn from the portrayal of bats is one of challenging preconceived notions and looking beyond appearances. The poem encourages readers to question their initial judgments and see the beauty and complexity in creatures or things that may seem unconventional or frightening at first glance. Just as the bats' delicate wings allow them to navigate the darkness with precision, the poem suggests that there is more to be discovered beneath the surface.

   This message resonates with our everyday lives, where we often judge or fear what we do not understand. The poem invites us to approach life with an open mind and an appreciation for the mysteries of the natural world. It teaches us that true understanding often requires looking beyond the surface and challenging our own biases and assumptions.