S/LI/55. ‘Although R. S. Thomass poetry is firmly rooted in a specific geographical situation, the themes and conflicts which he explores are manifestly of wider, more universal significance. To what extent do you agree?

This essay explores the ideas that, while R. S. Thomas was always greatly influenced my his geographical locations, the themes and issues he explores in his poetry are of much wider significance. It traces his career from his early days in Eglwysfach, to the poems written shortly before his death, covering 12 collections of his works. The themes explored include his affinity with the Welsh countryside and people, his struggle with language and his relationship with God.