Question

what does the word cardboard denote in the poem? why has this word been used?​

Answer 1

Answer:

In the poem, the word 'cardboard' stands for the frame that supports and borders the photograph. The photograph shows the poet's mother as a twelve year old girl with two of her cousins, Betty and Dolly. The word 'cardboard' has been used to depict that the photograph is many years old.

Answer 2

Answer:

The word 'cardboard' in the poem refers to the photograph of the poet's mother enjoying a sea-holiday with her two cousins, Betty and Dolly when she was twelve years old.

The cardboard stands for the frame that supports and holds the photograph. It signifies that life is transient and what remains is an insignificant piece of paper.