Introduction:
The photograph plays a significant role in the poem "A Photograph" by Shirly Toulson. The poem is a nostalgic and emotional portrayal of the poet's mother and her life. The photograph captures a moment in time and preserves it for eternity. The photograph holds memories and emotions that are deeply personal to the poet.

Symbolism:
The photograph is not just a mere representation of the past. It is a symbol of the poet's mother and her life. The photograph serves as a link between the past and present. It brings back memories of the poet's mother and her life. The photograph is a physical object that allows the poet to remember her mother and connect with her memories.

Emotional Value:
The photograph is of immense emotional value to the poet. It is the only tangible memory that the poet has of her mother. The photograph is a way for the poet to remember her mother and feel a connection to her. The photograph captures the essence of the poet's mother and her life. It is a reminder of the love and affection that the poet had for her mother.

Personal Connection:
The photograph also has a personal connection to the poet. It was taken by her mother's friend and is a representation of her mother's life. The photograph captures a moment in time and preserves it for eternity. The photograph is a way for the poet to connect with her mother's past and understand her life.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the photograph in the poem "A Photograph" plays a significant role. It is a symbol of the poet's mother and her life. The photograph has immense emotional value for the poet and serves as a link between the past and present. The photograph captures a moment in time and preserves it for eternity. It is a way for the poet to connect with her mother's past and understand her life.